Iterative development

Definition

Iterative development is a software development process that involves building software in repeated cycles, allowing for refinements and adjustments based on feedback and testing. This approach emphasizes continuous improvement and adaptability, aligning with Agile principles by promoting flexibility in responding to changes and user needs throughout the project lifecycle. It ensures that the product evolves progressively through iterations, rather than being developed in one long stretch.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Iterative development allows teams to identify and address issues early by incorporating user feedback after each cycle.
2. The process often includes time-boxed iterations, where specific tasks are completed within set periods, typically ranging from one to four weeks.
3. This method promotes collaboration among team members and stakeholders, facilitating better communication and alignment on project goals.
4. Each iteration aims to produce a potentially shippable product increment, ensuring that there is always a working version of the software.
5. Iterative development supports risk management by identifying uncertainties and challenges early in the process, reducing the likelihood of major issues at project completion.

Review Questions

• How does iterative development enhance flexibility and responsiveness in a project?
  • Iterative development enhances flexibility and responsiveness by allowing teams to adapt their work based on feedback received after each cycle. This approach promotes regular communication with stakeholders and end-users, enabling developers to make necessary adjustments to features or functionality. As a result, projects can pivot in response to changing requirements or unforeseen challenges without significant delays.
• What are the key differences between iterative development and traditional waterfall models?
  • Iterative development differs from traditional waterfall models primarily in its approach to project execution. In waterfall models, phases are completed sequentially with little room for revisiting previous stages once they are done. In contrast, iterative development allows for repeated cycles where each phase can be revisited based on feedback. This means teams can continuously refine and enhance the product rather than waiting until the end of the project to address issues.
• Evaluate how iterative development influences team collaboration and stakeholder engagement throughout a project's lifecycle.
  • Iterative development significantly influences team collaboration and stakeholder engagement by fostering an environment of continuous feedback and communication. With regular check-ins at the end of each iteration, team members collaborate more closely to assess progress and address challenges collectively. Stakeholders are actively involved throughout the process, providing insights that shape product features. This ongoing interaction ensures that all parties remain aligned with project goals, ultimately leading to a more successful outcome.

Related terms

Incremental Development: A software development approach that delivers the product in small, manageable sections or increments, allowing users to receive functional components progressively.

Feedback Loop: A process where outputs of a system are circled back and used as inputs, crucial for improving the product in each iteration based on user responses.

User Stories: Descriptions of software features from an end-user perspective, guiding development priorities and ensuring that user needs are met during each iteration.