The Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) is a structured, step-by-step process used by software teams to plan, design, build, test, deploy, and maintain software systems.
Think of it as a roadmap that ensures the final software is high-quality, on time, and within budget.
✅ Simple Definition
SDLC is a framework that describes how software is created from start to finish — from the idea stage to the final product and its ongoing updates.
🔁 The 7 Common Stages of SDLC
1. Planning
- Identify business needs
- Define project scope, cost, timeline
- Assess risks
➡️ “Why are we building this software?”
2. Requirements Gathering & Analysis
- Collect detailed requirements from stakeholders
- Understand what the system must do
➡️ “What features does the software need?”
3. Design
- Create system architecture
- Define databases, UI/UX, modules
➡️ “How will the software look and work internally?”
4. Development (Coding)
- Programmers write the actual code
- Build features based on design documents
➡️ “Let’s build it!”
5. Testing
- QA team tests the system
- Fixes bugs
- Ensures quality and performance
➡️ “Does it work correctly without errors?”
6. Deployment
- Release the software to users
- Roll out in phases or all at once
➡️ “Launch time!”
7. Maintenance
- Fix issues reported by users
- Add new features
- Release software updates
➡️ “Keep it running smoothly.”
💡 Why SDLC Matters?
- Ensures consistent quality
- Reduces project risks
- Controlled budget and timeline
- Better communication among teams
- Helps track progress and deliver on expectations
🚀 Popular SDLC Models
Different teams follow different SDLC approaches:
- Waterfall Model – sequential, one step after another
- Agile Model – iterative, flexible, fast updates
- Scrum – Agile framework with sprints
- DevOps – focuses on automation and continuous delivery
- Spiral Model – risk-driven, iterative