Software projects make use of different SDLC methodologies to ensures quality, time, and management of the development process. Generally, the SDLC process involves the identification of business requirements, implementation of functionalities, and delivery of the final product to the customer. Also, SDLC methodologies vary depending on the type of product being developed.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the most popular software development life cycle (SDLC) methodologies; from Agile to Waterfall and Spiral. Each section clearly defines what the particular SDLC methodology is, how it differs from its brethren, and when to implement it, plus a few tips to help you get off on the right foot.
Best 6 SDLC Methodologies
1. Waterfall
The Waterfall is the classic software development life cycle methodology. It divides the entire life cycle of the product into various phases, with each phase having its distinct role to play. Waterfall SDLC is a linear approach to managing the complete project lifecycle. At the end of each phase, we can review the overall project status. This will help to decide whether to continue with the next phase or not.
The waterfall model is a software development life cycle methodology that describes how features and functions are defined, agreed upon, and developed over time by a team of software developers working to create a single product, application, or software component. Moreover, it is considered an analytic approach to software development, with a heavy focus on functionality and design. This helps to provide predictability for the cost, schedule, and functionality of the deliverables.
2. Agile
The Agile software development lifecycle model is a software development method that has gained popularity in recent years. With its emphasis on frequent delivery of products or services, driven by requirements and feedback. Agile methodology helps to produce high-quality software within a short period. It focuses on creating working systems quickly and is often used in web design projects as an alternative to the waterfall model.
It aims to improve software quality and responsiveness to change. The broad goal of the Agile SDLC model is to deliver potentially releasable versions of the software at the end of every iteration (Kick point) of a project with minimal work (Rework).
3. Lean
The Lean software development life cycle model is a systematic method for removing or limiting waste in developmental projects. It is quite a new model that is gaining popularity because of the various benefits it brings to the table for both management and software developers. Also, Lean practices can help you improve your software development processes and lead to higher quality, improved lead time, and lower costs.
The key difference between the other SDLC models and the lean model is that it considers eliminating waste to be the most important activity since the excess effort and waste can turn a successful project into a system that is too inefficient to succeed.
As organizations continue to stagger under the weight of bloated processes, inefficient tooling, and endless meetings, the lean method could be the key to unlocking unprecedented efficiency.
4. Spiral
As a matter of fact, this approach has become one of the most respected and used SDLC methodologies by organizations across the world. The Spiral methodology makes use of various techniques. However, the goal remains the same: faster software improvement and achieve better results.
Simply put, Spiral is an iterative and incremental approach to software development. It has 6 phases, namely:
- Activities
- Time-boxes
- Successive prototype evaluations
- Integration and testing
- Production
- Problem resolution
Spiral is a method in software development where control returns back to the beginning when requirements change. An iterative and incremental approach, it’s ideal for projects with unstable requirements.
5. Iterative
Iterative Software Development Life Cycle is a proven, systematic approach to software development using interdependent phases and incremental processes. These iterations are then used to construct the software. The main advantage of using the iterative software development cycle model is that it allows the organization to implement the changes or make minor adjustments to the end product without affecting the major functionalities of the product.
When you start planning a project, it is important to make it a success. And to make this happen, you need to make sure that you create a plan that is feasible and easy to put into practice. The iterative model aims to cater to distributed development environments. It relies on careful analysis, tight feedback loops, and progressive elaboration of an initial or interim solution into more complex architecture.
6. DevOps
DevOps is a scientific approach for improving and standardizing a company’s method of delivering and managing its services. The main objective of using this methodology is to assist all parties involved to understand the issue-solving process. Furthermore, it aims to optimize and ultimately create a better workflow for all team members.
In simple words, it is defined as a culture and movement that is aimed at uniting software developers and IT operations through common goals and practices. Also, DevOps is a philosophy that encompasses building quality from the beginning, continuous integration, collaboration between software development and IT operations professionals. Moreover, it also encompasses sharing tools, infrastructure, information, etc. across functional boundaries.
Choosing the Best SDLC Methodology
When beginning a software development project, teams need to choose the best SDLC methodology. To do so, it is important to understand the purpose and goal of each SDLC model. That’s what the aforesaid section is all about.

Hi! I am Pankaj, a full-time content specialist and a part-time programmer and marketer. I love to explore new places and also new ideas. I am an inquisitive person with a passion to learn new skills through every possible opportunity that comes in the way.