8 Most Common Software Development Methodologies

Developing an application often demands the coordinated efforts of a diversely skilled team. Without strategic management, this complexity can quickly tip into chaos.

Software development methodologies provide a structured approach that allows teams to complete projects efficiently. A well-chosen methodology can boost productivity, enhance teamwork and collaboration, and facilitate the continuous improvement of products.

Software development methodologies such as Agile facilitate flexibility and adaptability, enabling teams to accommodate changing project requirements and feedback. Ultimately, they can deliver more satisfying products to clients, especially if targets and goals are likely to shift before the go-live date.

Other popular software development methodologies include Waterfall, Kanban, Scrum, DevOps, Rapid application development (RAD), Lean, Feature-driven development (FDD), and Extreme programming. Organizations can use these approaches in many contexts, such as supporting distributed workforces, hybrid teams, and independent professionals.

Could one of these methodologies provide the perfect structure for your next software development project? Keep reading to find out.

1. Waterfall

The Waterfall approach, the most traditional project management methodology we’ll discuss, comprises a series of stages executed consecutively. From conceptualization through construction, implementation, and maintenance, each phase flows down to the next (hence, the approach’s name).

The process is defined by orderly progress. Once a stage is completed, doubling back to revise is generally discouraged. While critics find this approach rigid and impractical, some teams love the clarity and consistency of a set trajectory.

Indeed, the Waterfall method lends itself to straightforward projects with clear and unchanging requirements rather than efforts involving many pivots and potential pitfalls.

Benefits of Waterfall

• Detailed planning. Waterfall places a strong emphasis on planning. Before starting any software project, teams must determine their goals, cost estimates, timelines, and resources. Team members must also know their roles and responsibilities. This level of clarity contributes to the successful completion of projects.
• Opportunities for staggered execution. If your team is handling multiple projects simultaneously, the Waterfall approach may allow different team members to focus on separate projects at various stages of development. ‍‍
• Simplicity for all stakeholders. Because the Waterfall approach is relatively straightforward, team members, managers, and clients can easily understand and add it to their workflows. You don’t need extensive experience in development to know where a project stands.

2. Agile

Agile may be best understood as a mindset rather than a singular software development methodology. In fact, many of the other methodologies we’ll discuss are informed or inspired by the Agile philosophy, which was developed as an explicit rejection of the Waterfall model.

Essentially, the Agile framework prioritizes iterative improvement over a cautious crawl to launch. The initial goal is to generate a minimum viable product and continuously improve it in light of evolving information about end-users’ needs and preferences.

In the Agile methodology, software development teams typically identify one problem or priority, work together in a time-bound “sprint” to achieve a solution, and then move on to the next challenge.

Benefits of Agile

• Responsiveness to change. The agile development method allows teams to respond and adapt quickly to new priorities and integrate client feedback.
• Boosts quality. Agile software development is an iterative approach that allows teams to push features incrementally and use client feedback to learn and make changes. Each feature is also tested rigorously before being pushed to production, which allows teams to continuously deliver quality software.
• The process doesn’t hinder productivity. Developers like to sink their teeth into problems, but rigid process requirements can prevent them from doing so. The Agile method is designed to keep the bureaucracy at bay, letting your team do what it does best.

3. Scrum

Under the Scrum framework, teams break down a software project into specific increments of work to be completed. These objectives are then accomplished in time-limited sprints (typically two to four weeks) during which team members devote their attention to the specific challenge at hand.

After these sprints, the team and key stakeholders review progress, noting necessary improvements and key learnings. The Scrum team then shifts to another sprint, which may or may not relate directly to the last one.

The Scrum approach demands discipline, as it encourages your team to remain singularly focused on a given sprint. Some professionals love this freedom from distraction; others prefer the ability to toggle between priorities. Scrum can improve your development process if you use it correctly.

Benefits of Scrum

• Undivided attention. By focusing your team’s efforts for set periods, the Scrum approach liberates developers from peripheral demands on their time.
• Collaborative camaraderie. Scrum teams are immersed continuously in shared priorities. Accordingly, they come to aid and rely on each other as they pursue mutual goals. ‍
• Frequent feedback. Because each sprint concludes with a constructive review, Scrum teams are constantly attuned to the needs of stakeholders. If requirements shift or miscommunications occur, you’ll discover discrepancies quickly.

4. Extreme Programming

Extreme Programming, also based on the Agile approach, emphasizes iterative development in specific time-limited cycles. However, in contrast to the Scrum framework, Extreme Programming entails more specific recommendations for software development practices down to the way code is written and reviewed.

The spirit and name of Extreme Programming reflect this methodology’s emphasis on implementing widely accepted values to an “extreme” extent. For programmers who buy into its rules, Extreme Programming can seem like the apotheosis of sound development principles.

For example, based on the notion that frequent code reviews limit the impact of errors, Extreme Programming recommends that teams code in pairs to catch mistakes as they occur. Similarly, based on the idea that frequent testing keeps code aligned with customer requirements, Extreme Programming asks developers to devise tests before writing the code to fulfill them.

The process is multifaceted and highly nuanced, so you should consider doing plenty of research before choosing this methodology.

Benefits of Extreme Programming

• Comprehensive guidelines. All the methodologies we discuss suggest process elements, but Extreme Programming also provides detailed guidance on how programming should occur. For some teams, this degree of specificity is constructive.
• Emphasis on continuous improvement. A core principle of Extreme Programming is its commitment to regularly updating code. With small improvements constantly occurring, everyone can work from the latest version, and the team can take encouragement from the ongoing progress.‍
• Increasing team engagement. Unlike some methodologies, Extreme Programming has clear instructions for collaborating with other team members and facilitating feedback. These elements of the software development process can be just as important as the technical aspects of the work.

5. Lean

The Lean methodology, another product of the Agile development model, aims to decrease waste in all stages of the software development process. Common sources of waste include unnecessary features and bloated code, miscommunications and duplicated efforts, vaguely expressed requirements, and quality issues that undermine subsequent progress.

To combat these common challenges, Lean teams often use some of the same techniques found in Extreme Programming, including paired programming and test-driven development. It also emphasizes continuous improvement and the fast delivery of a viable product.

But Lean includes its own concepts, such as delaying major decisions to keep the team’s options open as the project moves forward. Another key component is respect for the developers’ autonomy. Rather than forcing their teams to follow top-down directives, Lean leaders allow developers to create their own solutions.

Benefits of Lean

• Emphasis on efficiency. Lean development methodology turns everyone’s attention to streamlining core processes. Within a development team, this ethos can be a powerful accelerant.
• Flexibility moving forward. Lean teams don’t commit to a firm vision of their project at the outset. Instead, they keep alternatives on the table until a decision must be made. In evolving or uncertain contexts, this adaptability is valuable for team members and stakeholders alike.‍
• Respect for your team. Developers can do more than implement others’ instructions. Lean regards their insight as critical and empowers them to solve problems independently.

6. Kanban

Kanban is a system for organizing and executing software development tasks. It can be used independently or in conjunction with the methodologies we’ve already discussed. Kanban is a means to visually identify and address bottlenecks as they come up. It’s adapted from a workflow management system originally used in automotive manufacturing.

The crucial element of this approach is the Kanban board, which consists of columns denoting different stages in the life cycle of a given goal, such as “coding,” “code review,” and “code revisions.”

As team members complete a stage, they move the goal into the next column. This visualization highlights stoppages in workflow and facilitates adjustments. In fact, when a designated number of goals are stuck in one column, the team must “swarm” the backlog to address the issue.

Benefits of Kanban

• Shared reference points for progress. Whether it’s physical or digital, the Kanban board keeps everyone on the same page about the team’s efforts.
• Equitable assignments. If the team’s workload is unevenly distributed, the Kanban board will make this issue abundantly clear. Available team members can then shift their work priorities to assist their overburdened team members.‍
• Accessible to visual processors. Many programmers and other creatives are visually-oriented thinkers. The Kanban board serves their needs in ways that a data-heavy spreadsheet or verbal updates might not.

7. DevOps

DevOps is a software methodology that encourages collaboration, communication, and automation. It helps break silos by bringing together development and operations teams who work closely throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC).

The DevOps methodology encourages teams to adopt the microservices architecture, in which an application is broken down into smaller and independent modules that communicate with each other via an API. This microservice design approach facilitates faster product updates since smaller teams can focus on building specific standalone services rather than the whole application.

Continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD) are essential DevOps practices. With continuous integration, development teams have to push code changes to a centralized repository, making it easier for other team members to review incoming changes, address bugs, and improve overall software quality. A centralized code repository facilitates faster approval and speedy feature releases. Continuous delivery, on the other hand, allows software teams to build and deploy new features in the production environment quickly while adhering to quality standards.

DevOps also focuses on security and performance. It requires organizations to monitor key logs and metrics regularly to ensure applications perform as required. If bugs are detected during production, agile teams can respond quickly by pushing updates or reverting code commits. Version control features that are included in many code repositories, such as GitHub, help track modifications. Ultimately, this helps DevOps teams find the source of errors.

Benefits of DevOps

• Improved collaboration. The DevOps methodology was developed to bring down barriers  between development and operations teams. With DevOps, these teams can combine their efforts to build, test, and deploy a high-quality final product much faster. Key features such as version control and centralized code repositories—advocated for by the DevOps methodology—streamline workflows, allowing teams to easily monitor their progress and make more efficient decisions.
• Rapid deployment. Since development and operations teams are working together, it's easier for them to test and deploy new features—and lower the time to market. The microservice design approach also allows teams to focus on smaller modules that are easier to complete and debug.
• Quality and reliability. Continuous delivery and continuous integration DevOps practices allow teams to test out features before pushing them to production. Since product features are released sequentially, software development teams have more time to assess their work and ensure they’re adhering to standards.

8. Rapid application development (RAD)

The rapid application development methodology focuses less on the planning phase and instead pushes software development teams to put more effort into core activities such as modeling, prototyping, and testing. As a result, developers can quickly deliver product prototypes to clients and then use their feedback to add improvements.

With the RAD methodology, dev teams start with a loose set of requirements. They then build something that they can demonstrate to the client. Once the app structure is up, they can collaborate with clients to add more features. The RAD methodology is a flexible development process and that not necessarily require solid plans to get started.

However, the RAD approach may not work correctly when an organization is dealing with large projects. Due to the absence of a clear structure and solid plans, team members may end up stepping on each other's toes and become unproductive.

Benefits of RAD

• Quick prototyping. The RAD approach allows software teams to quickly dive into the real work of building software products rather than wasting time trying to come up with perfect plans.
• Lowers cost. With the RAD methodology, software development teams focus on building core functionalities instead of complex features which clients could end up eliminating. Because the team uses their time better, overall productivity increases.
• Flexibility. The RAD methodology enables agile teams to respond quickly to customer feedback and make desired changes or improvements to smaller projects.

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How to choose which methodology is right for your team

With so many software development methodologies available, identifying the one that’s right for your team can be challenging. We cover some factors to consider when looking for a software development methodology to add to your workflow.

Project requirements

Each software development methodology addresses specific goals, including lowering wastage, increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and boosting quality. As a result, a selected software development methodology must align with your project’s requirements.

Start with evaluating the specific needs of your project. What is your budget? What’s the project’s size? How regularly will you need to update customers on the project’s progress? Next, consider the complexity of the project. What is the project’s timeframe? Look at the customers' needs and desired goals. Can the customer provide fast feedback when requested?

Answering these questions can help you choose the right methodology. For instance, if your project is highly complex, Agile and Scrum methodologies may work for you. In contrast, the rapid application development methodology focuses on development and ignores the planning aspect, meaning software development teams using it for a complex project can become confused.

If your project requires flexibility, the Waterfall development methodology is too rigid, as it prevents team members from being agile and making changes to previous steps.

Team dynamics

While looking for a software development methodology, ensure it's compatible with your team members. Consider the skills, experience, and size of your team.

What working style does your team prefer? Note that some team members may not be comfortable working with certain methodologies. Others may also have trouble adapting to certain levels of collaboration promoted by methodologies such as Agile, Scrum, and DevOps.

Consulting your team is among the key management tactics that can help you identify their concerns. As a result, you’ll be in a better position to determine what methodology is best for them.

Organizational goals

Ensure that the selected software development methodology aligns with your company’s values, objectives, and long-term vision.

For example, if your company values quick results, the rapid application development methodology could be a fit since it bypasses much of the planning stages, enabling teams to start working on the product faster.

Agility

Software development methodologies support varying levels of agility. As a result, you should determine the level of adaptability and responsiveness your project requires. Agile and Scrum are some of the best methodologies for teams that wish to embrace change quickly.

Additionally, consider if the methodology supports iterative development and quick feedback loops. DevOps and Agile methodologies facilitate iterative development by allowing teams to break down complex projects into smaller pieces that are easier to complete. These approaches also require clients to provide quick feedback for continuous improvement.

Collaboration

Assess the importance of communication and collaboration within your team and with relevant stakeholders. With this information, you can select a methodology that supports the level of collaboration your team needs.

Methodologies such as Kanban, Scrum, and Agile advocate for cross-functional teams—meaning individuals with diverse skills and experience must work together to build a product. Agile and Scrum also promote collaborative decision-making, iterative development, and continuous improvement, which require close relations among team members.

Predictability

Consider your project’s milestones, deadlines, timelines, and required deliverables to find the right methodologies. The Waterfall approach follows a linear model where teams complete each stage of development before moving to the next. It facilitates high predictability by allowing teams to create well-defined timelines and follow detailed plans, meaning they can predict when a project will be completed.

Kanban and Scrum also promote predictability by focusing on iterative, incremental processes in which teams complete tasks in short cycles. Such teams can set specific deadlines and receive quick feedback from clients.

Flexibility

Though change is certain, software development methodologies differ in how they allow teams to respond to new conditions. Determine if a methodology allows for changes in the client’s requirements, scope, or priorities during the software development process.

Once again, Waterfall is too rigid and does not allow teams to go back and revise completed stages. It's best to consider other methodologies such as Kanban, Agile, and Scrum for projects that need a high degree of flexibility.

Risk tolerance

Consider your team’s comfort level with uncertainty and the degree of risks that a selected methodology can accommodate. Kanban, Scrum, and Agile methodologies have high-risk tolerance because they allow teams to release new product features incrementally. As a result, software development teams can make fast changes when the need arises.

The Waterfall methodology, on the other hand, has a low-risk tolerance and requires teams to plan thoroughly to avoid unexpected issues.

Enhance your software development approach with independent talent

The eight methodologies we’ve described represent an intriguing mix of approaches to software development. Each option has its own advantages suited to specific kinds of projects or teams.

Armed with a basic understanding of these methodologies, you’ll be positioned to select the optimal approach for your next development effort. Whichever framework you choose, your structure will surely be more efficient than a haphazard, disorganized approach.

You’ll need talented professionals who can thrive within your chosen methodology. Use Upwork to find independent developers and other top professionals to make your next software development project successful. Our platform makes it easy to attract and engage experienced professionals who can contribute effectively to your larger team.

And if you’re a software developer looking for work, consider starting your job search on Upwork. With hundreds of software-related projects posted daily, you can find those that are right for you and earn extra income.