Customised software for your business is like a tailored suit; it fits perfectly and enhances your unique features. With a custom website, program, or application, you can have a competitive advantage over your competitors and meet the specific needs of your business. However, the process of developing custom software is not as simple as buying an off-the-shelf product. A well-defined custom development lifecycle is required to ensure the success of the project.
With each project, you get certain steps (called the lifecycle) that the development team follows. These steps are designed to help ensure that nothing slips through the cracks and that everything is properly thought out.
If you're a business owner or manager working with a web development agency, understanding the custom development lifecycle is key. Knowing the process steps allows you to control your project better.
This guide will take you through the various steps of a typical custom development lifecycle.
What Is Custom Software Development?
Custom software development, especially for businesses, is the process of creating tailored software solutions to meet specific business needs. Unlike off-the-shelf software, custom software development involves building a unique program or application from scratch that is tailor-made to fit your business requirements.
What Is A Software Development Lifecycle?
A Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) is a framework that outlines the process used by software developers to build high-quality software (either custom or off-the-shelf) systematically and cost-effectively. This lifecycle provides a structured sequence of 7 stages in software development, guiding the project from its inception to its conclusion.
A Custom Development Lifecycle
As this blog focuses on custom development, we'll list the 7 stages of the custom development lifecycle below.
1. Ideas and Planning
A solid and unique idea goes a long way in creating a successful custom software solution. This initial stage is all about brainstorming with stakeholders and team members.
For example, if your business needs a custom e-commerce website, developers will brainstorm with SEOs, graphic designers, and UX/UI designers to determine the needed features and functions.
Once a solid idea is formed, the team can create a detailed development plan. This plan includes the project scope, budget, timeline, and necessary resources.
2. Project Practicability Analysis
This step gathers the requirements of the project and checks its feasibility. There are three main parts to this stage:
Requirement gathering: This part involves gathering all the details relating to the project. Details include customer goals and expectations, project constraints, and technical requirements.
Requirement analysis: Data is then analysed and prioritised to determine the project's goals and constraints. It is also used to identify any potential risks that may arise during development.
Documentation: Every step in the requirement gathering and analysis process is documented for present and future reference.
3. Designing
At this stage, developers create the architecture of the software based on the requirements gathered. This includes creating wireframes, mockups, and prototypes to visualise the user interface and functionalities.
Web and graphic designers work closely with developers to ensure that the design meets the client's expectations and aligns with the project's technical capabilities.
After a finalised design, the development team will translate it into code.
4. Development
This stage involves writing and testing code to build the software.
Depending on the project's requirements, developers use various web development frameworks and languages to create the software.
This step takes the most time as it involves creating the software's core functionality and ensuring its stability and usability.
5. Testing
Testing is a crucial step in the software development process.
It ensures that the software meets all requirements, functions correctly, and is free from bugs or errors.
Various testing methods, such as unit testing, integration testing, functional testing, and performance testing, are used to evaluate different aspects of the software.
If any issues are found, they are addressed and fixed before proceeding to the next stage.
6. Deployment
Deployment involves making the software available for public use.
The final product is deployed on a server or hosting platform (such as Xneelo). Users cannot access the software without a hosting platform.
Once the software is deployed, it goes through another round of testing to ensure that it works correctly on a live server and can handle user traffic.
7. Maintenance
Software development is an ongoing process, and maintenance is a crucial part of it.
After deployment, developers constantly monitor and update the software to fix any issues that may arise and enhance its functionality.
Regular maintenance ensures the software runs smoothly and meets the changing needs of users over time.
Control Your Project Better Today!
Understanding the custom development lifecycle will make you a more informed client. It will enable you to communicate effectively with your project team and have realistic expectations for the project's timeline.
It also helps you understand the importance of proper planning, testing, and maintenance in creating high-quality software that meets your needs.
At Starbright, we offer professional custom web development services and monthly website maintenance. Our team of professionals follows a structured development process to ensure the best results for your project.
Contact us today to learn more!