Top 5 Software Development Models in 2024

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Creating software involves a maze of software development processes. These process models require a methodical approach to planning, execution, and management. Various methodologies shape how projects are carried out. Each of these software development models comes with its own set of benefits. Along with benefits comes challenges too. Despite all the challenges and benefits enterprises and smbs cannot stand without software development in the digital landscape. Statista projects that the software development market revenue will reach $738.96 billion by 2025. However, enterprise software is set to dominate the market with a projected market volume of $312.80 billion in 2025, followed by application development software ($193.30 billion), system infrastructure software ($151.20 billion), and productivity software ($81.66 billion). Statista also predicts that the global software developer population will hit 28.7 million this year. 

In this discussion, we will learn what are software development models, what are the different types of process models and trends related to software development process. Keep Reading!

What Are Software Development Models?

Software development models or SLDC models are systematic frameworks that guide the creation of software applications. They outline a structured sequence of stages, each with specific activities, deliverables, and roles, to streamline the development process and enhance productivity. Software development process models act as blueprints, these models help developers methodically organize resources, manage risks, and monitor progress throughout the product’s lifecycle. Each model establishes a distinct interaction pattern between the vendor and the customer, ensuring clarity from the outset. Typically, the steps include preparation, design, engineering, and post-launch maintenance, though their names and subdivisions may vary across different models. Selecting the right model is crucial, as it should align with the project’s objectives and constraints. In this article, we aim to help you identify the model that best fits your project’s unique requirements.

Software Development Models

In this section, we’ll break down “What Are The Different Types of Process Models”, outlining their pros and cons, and identifying the ideal candidates, whether businesses or individuals for each model.

1. Iterative Model: The Flexible Path

The iterative model in software development is akin to building a puzzle one piece at a time. Rather than approaching the software development process as one colossal project, it breaks the process into manageable cycles called iterations. In each iteration, a small part of the software undergoes planning, development, testing, integration, and deployment. This iterative process in application development models allows for continuous improvement and early user feedback, making it particularly suited for complex projects with evolving requirements. It offers flexibility and reduces project risks, but can be more complex to manage and may face delays if requirements are unclear. Commonly used for enterprise software, web and mobile applications, and games, this model ensures that development continually adapts to user needs.

2. Waterfall Model: A Sequential Approach

The Waterfall model in software delivery models have several steps. Each step in waterfall process model in software engineering must be completed before moving to the next. This sequential approach is perfect for projects with well-defined requirements and minimal risk of changes. The process starts with requirements gathering and analysis, followed by system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. This process model is structured to reduce project risks and administrative overhead but struggles to adapt to changes and involves lengthy delivery times. This software development process is suitable for embedded systems, safety-critical applications, government projects, and financial systems, the Waterfall model ensures a thorough and linear development process.

3. Spiral Model: Balancing Risk and Progress

The Spiral model is a risk-driven approach to software development that combines elements of both the Waterfall and Iterative process models. Each turn of the spiral involves planning, risk analysis, engineering, construction, and customer evaluation, allowing for iterative development and frequent reassessment of risks. This makes it ideal for high-risk and complex projects with changing requirements. While this software development process model provides early feedback and adaptability, it can be more complex to manage and may face delays if requirements are unclear. Commonly used in defense, aerospace, medical, and telecommunications systems, the Spiral model ensures continuous risk assessment and mitigation throughout the project lifecycle.

4. V-Model: Structured and Predictable

The V-Model adopts a structured approach to software development models, depicted by a V-shaped diagram. It starts with requirements analysis, followed by system design, architectural design, module design, coding, and then moves up the V with unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and acceptance testing. This model promotes traceability and accountability, making it easy to track progress and ensure the project stays on budget. However, it lacks flexibility and involves lengthy delivery times. Ideal for projects with low risk of change, such as embedded systems, safety-critical applications, government projects, and financial systems, the V-Model ensures a thorough and linear development and validation process.

5. Agile: Collaborative and Adaptive

Agile is a flexible and adaptive approach based on the principles of the Agile. It emphasizes iterative development, collaboration, adaptability, and continuous feedback. Developers work in short cycles called sprints, constantly integrating user and stakeholder feedback to ensure the software meets evolving needs. While Agile helps manage risks and aligns the product with changing market demands, it requires skilled, self-organizing teams and makes it challenging to estimate timelines and budgets. Suitable for web and mobile applications, games, and startup projects, Agile promotes a customer-centric development process, ensuring the final product delivers high value and user satisfaction. Popular Agile frameworks include Kanban, Scrum, and Extreme Programming (XP), each offering unique methods to optimize workflow and improve software quality.

Software Development Trends

The current trends in software development process methods are influenced by the IT sector’s shift to digital technologies. This shift have transformed the way software is developed, deployed, and maintained. Agile development methodology is one of the most used and have gained wider acceptance, enabling shorter development cycles in hybrid and remote work environments. Some trending technologies in software development include:

1. Increased Investment in Progressive Web Apps

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs gaining widespread adoption and acceptance. With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.9%, the market value is expected to reach $10.44 billion by 2027. This surge in popularity aligns with the exponential increase in mobile usage over the past decade. PWAs offer website owners the chance to enhance user experience and aesthetics by providing a more app-like feel. The development scene is seeing a growing number of site owners investing in PWAs. 

2. Serverless Computing

Serverless computing allows developers to create applications and services without managing infrastructure, leading to better efficiency and cost savings. Major providers include Azure Functions, AWS Lambda, and Google Cloud Functions. For example, Spotify employs Google Cloud Functions for tasks such as user authentication, processing user-generated content, and backend tasks for music recommendation algorithms. This approach enhances scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

3. Greater Reliance on Distributed Computing

Distributed computing is becoming increasingly popular in 2024. This approach involves data sharing across multiple computer servers connected as a group, allowing large volumes of data to be processed more quickly by distributing the workload. Distributed computing enables applications to scale efficiently by adding servers as needed, improving performance while minimizing costs. Additionally, a failure in one server doesn’t affect others, ensuring continuity of operations. This trend is driving significant advancements in processing efficiency and system resilience.

4. Agile Methodology in Software Development Models

Agile methodology continues to be a major trend in software development processes. Its emphasis on flexibility, iterative progress, and constant user feedback makes it ideal for adapting to changing market demands. Agile enables shorter development cycles and faster delivery of functional software, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced digital environment. The rise of hybrid and remote work setups has further cemented Agile’s importance, as it facilitates effective collaboration and communication among distributed teams. As businesses seek to remain competitive and responsive, the adoption of Agile practices in software development models is set to grow even further, showcasing the dynamic nature of application development models.

Get Custom Software Solutions with Agile Excellence!

Vaival Technologies is the partner of choice for entrepreneurs, SMEs and major corporations. Since 2010, we’ve helped many businesses enhance their potential via custom software development, web3 & blockchain, dev-ops, design innovation and IT consulting services. At Vaival, we offer custom software development services designed to address your specific business requirements. We utilize the most efficient development frameworks and we guide your project from concept to completion. Our agile methodology enables us to quickly adapt to changing needs, ensuring the final product is both effective and flexible. 

Conclusion

Custom software development requires the right models to ensure success. Picking the right software development model is a tedious task but an important part for project success. Here are some of the tips for choosing the right software development model. First, look at your project’s size, complexity, and changing needs. Make sure your team has the skills needed for the model. Learn from others’ experiences to use best practices. Test the model on a small project to see if it works well. Stay flexible and ready to switch models if needed. Communicate clearly with your team and stakeholders about the chosen model and why it was picked. Using these tips will help you handle the complexities of software development. This ensures your projects are efficient, scalable, and user-friendly. 

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Sara Khalid

Technical Content Writer

Drive Innovation with Professional Software Development
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