Are you looking to enhance workflow to your software development processes seamlessly? Software development methodology offers a concrete solution. Understanding every aspect of software development methodology is crucial for developers. 

In this article, we have presented the details of the most popular software development methodologies with their pros and cons. 

Let’s dive into the details!

Who is this article for?
Developers and project managers seeking insights on software development methodologies.
Key takeaways
  • Overview of popular software development methodologies: Agile, Scrum, Waterfall, etc. Pros and cons of each methodology.
  • The importance of choosing the right methodology for specific projects.

What Is Software Development Methodology?

Software development methodology comprises structured processes tackling a specific project. A combination of manufactured philosophies and realism originated at the start of the IT era. This software development process mainly uses available resources and features. Software developing companies must capitalize on communication and formulate how the information is used within the team.

Software Development Methodologies: a Comparison of Advantages & Disadvantages

Agile Methodology

Agile Methodology refers to the custom software development methodology when a systemized software functions. There is no restriction in making changes to any project. First, developing software in sprints takes a few weeks or a month, and each of them requires the addition of a few more sprints to make it function. It is an essential tool to make current and future projects work. 

Pros

  • Focused approach on users and business
  • Improved customer satisfaction
  • Adaptive project approach

Cons

  • It needs time and precision
  • Lack of documentation

Scrum Methodology

If we talk about Scrum Development Methodology, this can be applied to almost all types of projects. This software development methodology comprises comprehensive planning, meetings, and a final review — one of the most rapid software development methodologies to allow multiple iterations without any break.

Pros

  • Versatile adaptability and flexibility
  • Enhances team spirit
  • Minimizes waste of resources

Cons

  • Lacks accurate resources estimation
  • Not suitable for complex projects

Waterfall Methodology

Even though the Waterfall Methodology has been around for quite some time, it still offers the best services to clients — the combination of a straightforward method in which different development stages are correctly arranged. Waterfall Methodology is included in the list of software development methodologies even used by novice users. As its name indicates, all the processes work like a waterfall. 

Pros

  • High-quality vision
  • Systematic teamwork
  • Easily manageable

Cons

  • Excessive documentation time
  • Not perfect for complex projects

Lean Development

It is a software development methodology that emphasizes reducing wastage and enhancing functioning. With proper knowledge, developers can focus more on learning and the growth of decisions. One of the best software development methodologies emphasizes the team communication process. 

Pros

  • Understand the client’s demands precisely
  • Minimizes wastage of resources
  • Empowerment of teamwork

Cons

  • Demands advanced developer skills
  • Lack precision

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Feature-Driven Development

Feature Driven Development is a software development methodology with its origin rooted in Agile. Each feature task must follow the planning, designing, and building sequence. Feature Driven Development would take almost two weeks to complete any project. 

Pros

  • Focused approach
  • Provides a platform for teamwork
  • Ideal for large projects

Cons

  • Not for small projects and individual developers
  • Lack of written documentation

Rapid Application Development

The Rapid Application Development (RAD) paradigm stands as a time-honored and remarkably adaptable approach within the realm of software development methodologies. This methodology, placing a paramount emphasis on the expeditious construction of projects while vigilantly safeguarding their quality, comprises a meticulously structured quartet of phases. These cardinal stages encompass the thorough delineation of project requisites, the crafting of prototypes, the rigorous crucible of testing, and, ultimately, the full-scale implementation of the project.

Pros

  • Swift results
  • Enhanced customer feedback
  • Reduces excessive efforts 

Cons

  • Dependent on individual work
  • Bit expensive
  • Not ideal for large projects

DevOps

DevOps is one of the most famous software development methodologies due to its multiple functions. The two departments of Development and Operations make this software development process a complete package. These two function as a team and allow the developers to ensure quality, security, and functionality to the client. 

Pros

  • Minimizes human error
  • Fast-tracking of tasks
  • Enhanced customer experience

Cons

  • As it is a novice, it lacks expertise, yet
  • Organizational upgradation

How to Choose a Software Development Methodology?

All these software development methodologies offer the best services for specific projects. Every software development methodology has its pros and cons. The reason is that developers must know all the information and requirements concerning any software development process and decide accordingly.

We have made a comparison table of the main software development methodologies to make it easier for you to decide which methodology is right for your company.

Conclusion

The software development methodology is a vital part of the tech development company. If you need clarification about which one to use, worry not! Give this article a read and select any product according to your demand. 

author-post
Sergey Miroshnychenko
CEO AT FICUS TECHNOLOGIES
My company has assisted hundreds of businesses in scaling engineering teams and developing new software solutions from the ground up. Let’s connect.