Phases of Iterative Model

With the iterative model, software development life cycle (SDLC) approaches are used to build software. First, well-defined basic requirements provide the basis for development work, and then, through iterations, additional features are added to this foundational software until the final system is constructed. Because the iterative model starts with a simple execution of a small collection of software requirements and iteratively improves the emerging versions until the full system is executed and ready to be redistributed, we acquire a working piece of software fairly early in the lifecycle. Each iterative model release is developed over an exact duration known as an iteration.

Phases of Iterative Model:

Requirement collection and analysis:

During this stage, analysts collect requirements from clients and determine whether or not they will be fulfilled. Analysts verify whether or not needs will be met within budget. The software team moves on to the next stage after all of this.

Design:

Using various diagrams, such as state transition diagrams, activity diagrams, class diagrams, and data flow diagrams, the team designs the software during this phase.

Implementation:

Requirements are expressed in a coding language and converted into software, or computer programs, at this phase.

Testing:

Using various test techniques, software testing commences following the completion of the development process. Though there are other test methods as well, the most popular ones are the black, grey, and white box approaches.

Deployment:

Software is put into its working environment once all the processes have been completed.

Review:

Following product deployment, this phase is carried out to verify the behavior and applicability of the created product. And the procedure restarts at requirement gathering if any errors are discovered.

Maintenance:

During the maintenance phase, defects, errors, or the need for new updates may arise after the program has been deployed in the working environment. Debugging and new additions are part of maintenance.

Characteristics of the Iterative Model:

• It gives you the ability to objectively show and gauge the status of your project.
• The project’s functionality grows progressively more advanced.
• It enables you to continuously raise the project’s quality.
• Continuous improvements assist you in reducing the likelihood of risk.
• The accuracy of the many estimations that might be included in the project can be seen to have improved.
• Another name for it is the cyclic model. Following the first phase, some recur, and each time a phase is finished, there’s always room for improvement.
• Finally, it facilitates a rise in team spirit, cooperation, and productivity.

Advantages of the Iterative Model:

• Flexibility to Change: The model allows for changes and modifications, making it suitable for projects with evolving or unclear requirements.
• Early and Incremental Delivery: Users get to see and use a portion of the system early in the development process.
• Reduced Risk of Project Failure: Issues and risks are addressed early in the development process, reducing the likelihood of project failure.
• Customer Feedback: Continuous customer feedback helps in refining the system and ensuring that it aligns with user needs.
• Adaptability to Changes: Changes can be incorporated easily during the development process, even late in the project.

Disadvantages of the Iterative Model:

• Management Overhead: Managing multiple iterations and coordinating their development can introduce additional management overhead.
• Possibility of Scope Creep: Without careful management, there is a risk of scope creep as new features and changes are introduced in each iteration.
• Complexity: The model may introduce complexity, especially if the iterations are not well-managed or if the project requirements are not clearly defined.