What is a Program Development Cycle? Know all about it

Introduction

A structured process that software developers use to design, create, test, and deploy software applications is called the program development cycle (PDC), or software development life cycle (SDLC). Each of the phases in this cycle is essential to guaranteeing the success, quality, and functionality of the finished product. We will go through the phases, approaches, best practices, and important factors of the program development cycle in detail in this comprehensive guide.

Program Development Cycle

Before starting the process of writing a program (coding), the programmer has to determine the problem that needs to be solved. There are different approaches to problem-solving. Most require breaking the problem into a series of smaller steps, independent of the programming language. One common technique is to use the program development cycle, with the number of steps that may vary according to the person who has formalized the development.

Often the process runs in a loop because as the current process is completed, new demands appear, and the development process commences again. Development cycle of a program includes the following phases:

1.Analyse/Define the Problem

In this phase, the problem is analysed precisely and completely. Based on his understanding, the developer knows about the scope within which the problem needs to be developed.

2.Task Analysis

After analyzing the problem, the developer needs to develop various solutions to solve the given problem. From these solutions, the optimum solution (by experimenting with all the solutions) is chosen, which can solve the problem comfortably and economically.

3.Developing Algorithm

After selecting the appropriate solution, algorithm is developed to depicts the basic logic of the selected solution. An algorithm depicts the solution in logical steps (sequence of instructions). Further, algorithm is represented by flowcharts and pseudocodes. These tools make program logic clear and they eventually help in coding.

4.Testing the Algorithm for Accuracy

Before converting the algorithms into actual code, it should be checked for accuracy. The main purpose of checking algorithm is to identify major logical errors at an early stage, because logical errors are often difficult to detect and correct at later stages. The testing also ensures that the algorithm is a ‘true’ one and it should work for both normal as well as unusual data.

5.Coding

After meeting all the design considerations, the actual coding of the program takes place in the chosen programming language. Depending upon application domain and available resources, a program can be written by using computer languages of different levels such as machine, assembly, or high-level languages.

6.Test and Debug the Program

It is not unusual for the initial program code to contain errors.The errors may be in the form of logical errors (also known as semantic errors) or incorrect use of programming language (grammatical errors also known as syntax errors). A program compiler and programmer-designed test data machine tests the code for syntax errors. The results obtained are compared with results calculated manually from this test data. Depending upon the complexity of the program, several rounds of testing may be required.

7.Documentation

Once the program is free from all the errors, it is the duty of the program developers to ensure that the program is supported by suitable documentation. These documents should be supplied to the program users. Documenting a program enables the user to operate the program correctly. It also enables other persons to understand the program clearly so that it may, if necessary, be modified or corrected by someone other than the original programmer.

Methodologies in Program Development

Waterfall Model

Step-by-step approach organized into different phases, namely, affecting requirements, design, implementation, testing, and deployment.
Emphasies accuracy of planning and documentation to the maximum at the very beginning. Create an account to get unlimited access to all lessons.

Agile Methodology

Agile process split up into small iterations called sprints that lasts for one to four weeks. Its feature is that it has a short development cycle.
Encourages flexibility, collaboration, and fast feedback. Discuss the impact of globalization on national infrastructure, including transportation, communication, energy systems, and urban planning. How has it led to the development or improvement of these systems, and what challenges have arisen as a result of their integration into the globalized world?

Scrum Framework

The Agile model based on roles (Scrum Master, Project Manager, Development Team) and ceremonies(sprint planning, daily standups, sprint review, sprint retrospective) will be implemented.
Concentrates on having short iterations as the main means of providing customers with value.

DevOps Practices

Incorporation of DevOps services to automate integration, build and deployment activities throughout an entire lifecycle.
Underlines possession, partnership, and feedback loops.

Best Practices of Development

Clear Requirements: Make sure auditing and collection of user needs, requirements and goals of project thoroughly.
Modular Design: To carry out an orderly construction of software program its customary to divide it into manageable modules and components for easier development, testing and maintenance.
Version Control: Adopt game version control systems (e.g., Git, SVN) to manage changes, work with teams, and store repositories, which contain code.
Testing Automation: Utilize software automated testing frameworks like Selenium, JUnit to facilitate testing execution and code correctness.
Code Reviews: Conducting of code reviews, and involving one's peers in creating part of the team’s strategy for writing the computer code, will assist in identifying problems, improving the quality of the code, and sharing knowledge.
Continuous Integration/Delivery: Be able to use CI/CD pipelines to absolutely automate the builds, testing, and deployment producing regular and trustworthy software releases.

Conclusion

The program development cycle, which includes phases ranging from requirement analysis to maintenance and updates, is a methodical approach to developing software applications. In today's dynamic and competitive digital landscape, developers can meet user expectations, deliver high-quality software, and streamline the development process by utilizing contemporary tools and technologies, adopting agile methodologies, and adhering to best practices.