Waterfall methodology is a non iterative linear approach for developing software. In this model, the whole development process is divided in to different phases and each phase is completed separately in a sequential manner. Thus, one can move to another phase only if the previous phase is completed.
Phases of waterfall methodology
Feasibility Study : It includes the visioning of the proposed project such as what will be the cost incurred, what are the feasible option to get this done, what all resources will be required, whether the taken project is feasible or not, etc.
Requirements : In this phase, business analyst meets customers to seek detailed information such as what all functionalities are required in the software, what is the purpose behind developing software and who is the target audience. This requirements are then analyzed that whether customer’s message is clearly understood, list is created about all required features, what level of performance it should meet, what all systems are needed to be integrated, etc. All such information is documented, which work as the input for the next phase.
Design : In this phase, all requirements listed are divided in to different modules for easy implementation. Then for each module, both software and hardware requirements are defined . This means deciding on architectural design, database design, interface and backend logic, selection of environment, etc. Moreover, security, performance and quality parameters are also defined. It is base for the development phase and deciding factor for proper working of the software.
Development : In this phase, frontend and backend developers start developing product as per the design elements decided in the previous phase. Each module is coded by developers using appropriate programming language and IDE(Integrated development environment), which results in module wise components of product. Those separated components of products are then integrated to give complete product with all pre defined functionalities.
Testing : Software testers, then test the module wise product components and integrated product to confirm quality and smooth running of software without error. They execute entire program and find out bugs, which then notified to developers to make changes accordingly. Every aspect of product is tested to verify that the developed software is meeting all requirements defined in the requirement phase.
Installation : In this phase, once the product is certified by tester as ready to use, it is then delivered to client. The software is installed on the client’s site with details of its released version.
Maintenance : In this phase, software developers check software at the regular interval to confirm smooth working of software. Also fix issues within stipulated time, if encountered any during maintenance period.
Advantages of waterfall model
It is oldest and simplest methodology.
It is very easy to understand and implement.
Since the entire process takes place sequentially, each phase is managed effectively and there is no risk of overlapping of phases.
After each phase, clients can see the progress of product and can also review it.
Specific time schedule can be fixed for each phase and thus client can get contentment that the development of their product is going in the right direction.
Outputs of each phase is documented after its completion, so that its gives clear understanding to the personnels involved in subsequent phase.
In this model, user requirements are clearly defined and thus work goes very smoothly.
On what projects, it is suitable?
It is suitable for projects, whose requirements are well defined and unambiguous.
It works best for smaller projects.
Pitcher Technology is India based high quality driven digital solution provider company. Our services include website development, mobile and web application development, software development and marketing services. Our team can effectively work on your project using “Waterfall Methodology”.