Software Development Process

The software development process is a general term describing the over-arching process of developing a software product. Sometimes referred to as the software lifecycle, this process may be used for the implementation of a single application or a far-reaching ERP system.

While there is not standard definition, most development processes include the following activities:

• Requirement gathering
• Design
• Implementation
• Testing
• Maintenance

Companies often select a development process that fits their personnel and resources. Several development process methods are in existence, and a growing body of software development standardizing organizations are currently implementing and rating different methods.