What is System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is a general methodology that covers various step-by-step processes required to create a quality software product. SDLC emerged with the development of the first software systems in the 1960s and gradually evolved into a complex model of the software development process that can be seen and used within a specific software development model. It also provides a well-structured flow of phases that help an organization quickly produce high-quality software which is well-tested and ready for production use.

SDLC is a project management model used to effectively outline, design, develop, test and finally implement an information system or software product. In other words, it defines the core phases that are important to take a specific project from idea or concept to actual implementation and subsequent maintenance.

The SDLC consists of seven different phases: planning, analysis, design, development, testing, implementation, and maintenance. All of these are especially important to deliver high-quality, cost-effective products in the shortest possible time.

In summary, the systems development life cycle is a complex project management model that includes system creation from initial idea to final deployment and maintenance.

In the long run, development teams in both the IT and other industries can benefit from implementing the systems development life cycle in their projects. Use the guide above to determine how to use it in combination with the SDLC for the best results.