Over the years, the selection of a software development methodology has gained significant importance, and for good reason. The success of even small projects hinges on adopting the right approach. These methodologies serve as structured forms of communication that delineate the "how" of the software life cycle. 

However, the task of choosing the most suitable methodology to manage a project can be challenging, particularly because not every methodology is universally compatible with all types of businesses. This challenge is especially pertinent in the realm of custom software development, where the unique requirements of businesses must be addressed by software developers through an appropriate methodology selection.

Overview of software development methodologies

1. Agile

An iterative process called agile methodology is used to turn a list of requirements into software. Agile software development approaches place a strong emphasis on involving teams and clients directly to better understand goals and provide timely solutions. Since they are currently popular approaches, many attempt to adopt them without taking the project needs into account. Without sufficient instruction and a comprehensive agile transformation of the organization, it may occasionally result in disaster.  

2. Scrum

Team members utilize the Scrum methodology's iterative development strategy to break down large jobs into manageable ones and complete them in sprints. This incremental approach encourages more rapid development, which benefits intricate projects. The primary KPI for Scrum is the velocity, or the quantity of work the team may complete in a particular sprint, and the focus is on cycles called sprints. It has the ability to provide product increments steadily. Specific responsibilities and so-called artifacts are needed as the framework's tools. 

3. DevOps

Since the DevOps movement gained traction in 2007 and 2008, the term has acquired use in the IT industry. Rapid software development, testing, and release are made possible by DevOps. As a result, it guarantees improved outcomes and permits continuous product delivery. A collection of cutting-edge techniques, procedures, and automation philosophy known as DevOps brings together IT operations and software development.

4. Waterfall

The Waterfall Model is a linear and uncomplicated technique that focuses on the logical flow of processes in the development process. It was first introduced in 1970 by Winston Royce in his research paper. With this approach, each step must be finished before the next one may start.

5. Iterative

Software development companies can integrate a limited number of software requirements using the iterative or incremental development paradigm. This process continues until the full system is complete.

The entire custom software development process is divided into smaller components using this methodology. This paradigm has the advantage that it may be applied in the first phases of the SDLC. Software developers can thus identify any faults and implement fixes within a restricted budget.

7. KANBAN  

Lead time is the main emphasis of Kanban, which also tracks and visualizes work in progress and offers a continuous cycle of development. It is appropriate for steady support and maintenance as well as project creation. Without the constraints of sprints and distinct team responsibilities, it is genuinely an agile framework.

Factors should take into account while selecting the best software development approach 

The mere fact that a software development technique is popular does not guarantee that you will be able to apply it effectively and reap its benefits. Processes inside a product differ fundamentally from, say, outsourcing firms and how they manage the demands of their clients. On the opposite. The entire project may be in danger if you choose the incorrect technique and apply it improperly. 

You must consider the team's organizational structure and the kind of project you want to handle in order to make the best decision: 

- Fixed-cost model

- Dedicated team

- Support and Maintenance    

They all provide unique difficulties. You can successfully address these issues in each situation by picking the appropriate project management framework. 

Fixed price project 

Typically, projects of this nature have set expectations. Here, the project's duration is constrained by a fixed budget. So, it is not the kind that is most flexible. various people may have various ideas on how to apply the agile framework to such rigid projects, but with a strong team on our side and solid client communication, you can succeed. 

Depending on the size of the project, you can use the following framework:

For small projects: Waterfall can get used to design, construct, and execute on such tiny sizes for projects of any size. Due to the short timelines and cheap spending, the risk is low.  

For medium-sized and large-sized projects: Scrum provides the tools for such complicated projects with its clearly defined and organized methodology. If the project's scope is unclear, you may add a design sprint in the planning process to help you define the project's needs more precisely.  

Such initiatives frequently include long-term development and support, with several resources contributing their time either part- or full-time. 

Dedicated team 

The finest choices for long-term team growth and an organized approach are offered by this team structure.  

Scrum would provide the structure you need to handle complicated planning-delivery-feedback iterations if you were considering a medium to a big project that would require a team of 5 to 7 persons. 

Here, hire software developers with a lot of expertise that functions somewhat autonomously and are able to commit to sprints and produce with a high average speed. With such a team, you would anticipate a successful client communication strategy that included pertinent positions, such as Product Owner. 

It can seem difficult to do, but Scrum is a complicated framework that requires facilitators with experience to effectively manage the framework and artifacts. Even some claim that Scrum is similar to bread. You are not creating Scrum if you don't use the appropriate ingredients.  

Support and Maintenance 

KANBAN is the recommended agile framework for support and maintenance, as was already mentioned. It works well to help the management of requests and tickets. Implementing this framework is simple and does not need the use of sophisticated tools or process mitigation. The team needs a board to keep track of ongoing projects and the whole request lifecycle so that we can monitor reactions, cycles, and lead times. The SLA we have with the client may be directly linked to them. a structure that is transparent and clear.

Conclusion:

The approaches for software development that are discussed here are widely used. Decide which of the software development approaches shown here will work best for your company by evaluating them.