Software Engineering basics - Software Development Process Activities

The Software Development Process Activities (often described in the Software Development Life Cycle – SDLC) are the main steps followed to build reliable and efficient software.

 

1. Requirement Analysis

  • Gather and analyze what the user/customer needs.

  • Define functional and non-functional requirements.

  • Output: Software Requirement Specification (SRS).

2. System Design

  • Convert requirements into a blueprint for the system.

  • Includes:

    • High-level design (architecture, modules, database schema).

    • Low-level design (detailed algorithms, interface design).

  • Output: Design Document.

3. Implementation (Coding)

  • Developers write code according to design specifications.

  • Programming languages, frameworks, and tools are used.

  • Output: Source code (software product).

4. Testing

  • Verify and validate the software against requirements.

  • Types of testing: Unit testing, Integration testing, System testing, Acceptance testing.

  • Goal: Find and fix bugs, ensure quality.

5. Deployment

  • Deliver the software to users or clients.

  • May include installation, configuration, and initial user training.

  • Can be phased (pilot, beta testing, full release).

6. Maintenance

  • Ongoing activity after deployment.

  • Fixing bugs, updating features, adapting to new environments.

  • Types: Corrective, Adaptive, Perfective, Preventive maintenance.

Summary Flow

Requirements → Design → Implementation → Testing → Deployment → Maintenance

This cycle can follow different models (e.g., Waterfall, Agile, Spiral).