If you are trying to find a faster application development method, you are surely looking to move away from the waterfall methodology, in which it is necessary to stick to a planned program that does not allow continuous iterations and that forces you to start from scratch in the process. development every time the customer requests modifications to be made.
Instead of this method, it is a good idea to consider the rapid application development (RAD) that James Martin devised in 1991. Although it is not a novel method, the RAD methodology has become very popular with those seeking agile application development techniques to keep pace with a growing company and customer needs.
What Is Rapid Application Development And What Benefits Does It Bring To Businesses?
Contents
The Rapid Application Development (RAD) model is an agile software development technique that prioritizes rapid prototype releases and iterations. The main feature of Rapid Mobile App Development is the use of “low code/no code” tools. Unlike the waterfall methodology, RAD takes more into account the use of the software and the input of the user than the rigorous planning and recording of the requirements.
Here Are Some Of The Benefits Of Rapid Application Development
- Increases versatility and adaptability, as developers can make necessary adjustments immediately during the development process.
- Quick iterations reduce development time and speed delivery.
- Code reuse is encouraged, thus reducing manual programming and consequently reducing both the chance for errors and trial periods.
- Customer satisfaction is increased thanks to the high level of collaboration and coordination between the parties involved, such as developers, customers and end users.
- There is better risk management, as the people involved have the ability to discuss and address different vulnerabilities without stopping development processes.
- The surprise factor is reduced, since, unlike the waterfall methodology, in the rapid development of applications there are integrations in the earliest phases of the software development processes.
5 Steps Of Rapid Application Development
Step 1: Define And Specify The Project Requirements
During this phase, stakeholders must work together to define and specify project requirements, such as objectives, expectations, deadlines, and budget. Once all aspects of the project requirements have been clearly established and defined, it is time to pass them on to management for approval.
Step 2: Start Designing The Prototypes
As soon as the scope of the project has been defined, the development phase can begin. Designers and developers will work closely with clients to create and improve prototypes that are already underway until the final product is ready.
Step 3: Gathering User Feedback
In this phase, the prototypes and beta systems are turned into a streamlined workflow. Then, the developers collect the information that the users provide to correct and improve the prototypes and create a product of the highest possible quality.
Step 4: Tests, Tests, And Run More Tests
In this phase it is necessary to test the software product and make sure that all the gears work together smoothly to meet the customer’s expectations. Customer feedback continues to be incorporated as the code is tested over and over again until it performs flawlessly.
Step 5: Introducing The System
This is the phase prior to the launch of the finished product. Data conversion and user training are integrated into it.