Software Development

Software development refers to the creation of a new product that users can use with their computer programs. One of the types of this development is custom software. This process helps develop specific applications to meet the needs of a client or group of clients that will help them solve a problem. Each firm has different needs and as such has different specifications in the type of software it needs to efficiently manage and run its business.

It may take several stages to develop specific software of any kind with tests of the progress at each stage. Then when software engineers find a problem, they go back to drawing board to find ways of solving the problem. When the final product is ready for use, all the glitches and bugs have been worked out.

Most software engineers use the Six Sigma method of developing software. This system consists of:

Domain analysis. Since it is virtually impossible for all software engineers to be experts in every piece of computer software that exists, the first step in adding to an application or creating a new one is to locate the domain of the software. This gives them the information they need in order to make changes or adaptations.
Software Elements Analysis. The engineer has to have the exact requirements from the client because having an abstract idea will not result in the final product matching the need or solving the problem.
Requirements Analysis. The engineer has to analyse the customer’s requirements to determine if it is applicable to the computer operating system the client uses. Some requirements may be outside the scope of what a piece of software can actually do.
Specification. This refers to describing the program that is needed.
Software Architecture. This is the abstract representation of the system, which ensures that the software will meet the requirements of the program.
Implementation. In this stage the engineers and programmers actually write the code that will run the program.
Testing. The program goes through specific tests to determine if it does meet the need of the client and to see whether or not there are any bugs or glitches that need to be worked out.
Deployment. Once the testers ascertain that the software runs smoothly, then it is released.
Documentation. This refers to documenting the internal design of the software for future reference.
Software Training and Support. In some cases, those who will be using the software need training in how to use it properly. There also needs to be some sort of support system, as in the case of a Help Desk, where users can get help with any problems they encounter when using the software.
Maintenance. The software needs to be maintained and updates as needed depending on its purpose.