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Iterative Development

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Iterative development is a software development methodology that involves building and refining a product through a series of repeated cycles, or iterations. Each iteration involves planning, designing, developing, and testing a portion of the product, with the goal of continuously improving and refining the final product based on user feedback and evolving requirements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Iterative development allows for faster time-to-market and the ability to adapt to changing requirements or user needs.
  2. Each iteration in the development process typically includes planning, design, implementation, and testing, with a focus on delivering incremental improvements.
  3. Iterative development encourages collaboration between cross-functional teams, including developers, designers, and stakeholders.
  4. The use of MVPs in iterative development helps to validate assumptions and gather valuable user feedback early in the process.
  5. Continuous feedback loops are essential in iterative development, as they guide the direction of the product and inform future iterations.

Review Questions

  • Explain how the iterative development process differs from a traditional, linear software development approach.
    • In a traditional software development approach, the entire product is planned, designed, and developed before being tested and released. In contrast, iterative development involves building and refining the product through a series of repeated cycles, or iterations. Each iteration includes planning, designing, developing, and testing a portion of the product, allowing for continuous improvement and adaptation based on user feedback and evolving requirements. This iterative approach enables faster time-to-market, greater flexibility, and the ability to respond to changing needs more effectively than a linear, waterfall-style development process.
  • Describe the role of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in the iterative development process.
    • The Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a key component of iterative development, as it allows teams to quickly release a basic version of the product and gather user feedback. By focusing on the core features and functionality, the MVP helps validate assumptions and gather valuable insights that can inform the direction of future iterations. This feedback loop is essential in iterative development, as it guides the continuous improvement and refinement of the product based on real-world user needs and preferences. The MVP approach enables teams to test their ideas, learn from users, and make data-driven decisions about the product's evolution, rather than relying solely on assumptions or predetermined plans.
  • Analyze how the iterative development process supports the management, following, and adjustment of the initial plan, as outlined in the 10.4 Managing, Following, and Adjusting the Initial Plan topic.
    • The iterative development approach aligns well with the 10.4 Managing, Following, and Adjusting the Initial Plan topic, as it allows for continuous monitoring and adjustment of the development process. By breaking the project down into smaller, manageable iterations, teams can closely follow the progress of the plan and make necessary adjustments based on user feedback and changing requirements. The iterative nature of the process enables teams to remain agile and responsive, quickly adapting the plan as needed to ensure the final product meets the evolving needs of the target market. This flexibility is crucial in the face of uncertain or rapidly changing market conditions, as it allows the initial plan to be continuously refined and improved through each iteration, rather than being rigidly adhered to. The iterative approach supports effective management, ongoing monitoring, and timely adjustments to the development plan, ultimately leading to a more successful and user-centric final product.