A Survey on Incremental Software Development Life Cycle Model

Abstract

In this current era of software development, a large number of life cycle models are available for the systematic development of computer software and projects. SDLC models give a theoretical guide line regarding development of the software. This paper focused on the survey of incremental software design life cycle. The incremental model is a method of software development where the product is designed, implemented and tested incrementally until the product is finished. It involves both development and maintenance. The product is defined as finished when it satisfies all of its requirements. This model combines the elements of the waterfall model with the iterative philosophy of prototyping. Incremental model is an evolution of waterfall model. The product is designed, implemented, integrated and tested as a series of incremental builds. It is a popular model software evolution used many commercial software companies and system vendor. Incremental model is the advancement of the waterfall model. The phases of waterfall model are employed in such a manner that the result of any of the increment is used back as the input for the next increment. Thus with each increment there are some client's feedback that is used in getting the next incremental product. Thus with each ongoing increment the functionality of the core product gets enhanced. The series of releases is referred to as ?increments?, with each increment providing more functionality to the customers. After the first increment, a core product is delivered, which can already be used by the customer. Based on customer feedback, a plan is developed for the next increments, and modifications are made accordingly. This process continues, with increments being delivered until the complete product is delivered.
Key Words: Incremental model, SDLC, Waterfall model, Software engineering and Software