Understanding the Spiral Model in Software Development

Definition :

Spiral Model in software development means a step by step approach where the project is developed in repeating cycles called spirals instead of doing everything at once.

We go for the Spiral Model to overcome the drawbacks of Waterfall model. Also when there are dependent modules in the customer requirement we prefer spiral model.

Phases includes :

1. Requirement collection & feasibility study

2. Designing

3. Coding &

4. Testing

In-detail explanation of each phase

1. Requirement collection & feasibility study :

In the Spiral Model, we first collect simple requirements from the customer. Then we check if the ideas are possible and affordable (feasibility study). This process is repeated in every round to improve the plan.
It helps in building the software step by step with fewer mistakes.

2. Designing :

After collecting the requirement at every cycle we do the designing for that cycle or for that feature.

3. Coding :

As soon as completion of designing we go for the Coding part in the development for the current module or feature.

4. Testing :

We do testing for the Coded current module which is under development & then we will give it to the customer. This entire cycle repeats for the all the modules.

Advantages Of Spiral Model

1. Requirements can be changed after each cycle, so it's easy to make updates.

2. Customer can see the software in every cycle, which keeps them happy.

3. Testing is done in each cycle, so mistakes are found early and quality is better.

4. Risks are checked early, so big problems can be avoided.

Drawbacks Of Spiral Model

1. Requirements can’t be changed in the middle of a cycle, only after it ends.

2. Requirements and design are not tested early, so mistakes may go unnoticed.

3. Developers do the testing, which may not be fully qualified.

4. Same steps are repeated for every part, which takes more time.

Applications Of Spiral Model

1. Used in projects with dependent modules.

2. Suitable in cases where customer gives requirements in stages.

3. Preferred in large and complex software development where privacy & security is important.

4. Used in projects with high risk and frequent changes.

Summary Point

Spiral Model is a step by step development process with repeated cycles, focusing on dependent modules and flexibility. It is best suited for complex projects where requirements change and customer feedback is important.