Welcome back to the third part of our Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) video series! In this episode, Ricardo Berrís and Andrés Blanco dive deep into one of the most pivotal phases of the SDLC: the Design phase.
“The design phase of the software life cycle is much like creating blueprints for a house or designing the look and engine of a car,” says Berrís. It’s here that the theoretical becomes practical. The abstract concepts and ideas discussed during the requirements phase are now visualized and modeled.
Front-end vs. Back-end: Most clients and even many developers primarily focus on the front-end – that’s the look, the feel, the interface of the app or website. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Behind the scenes, what’s crucial is the back-end development. That’s where the actual data storage, data manipulation, and functionality come into play.
Infrastructure and Architecture: These are the backbone of any software solution. The importance of a robust design is highlighted by a study from the Standish Group, which discovered that 42% of software projects fail due to poor design. The design phase lays the foundation, detailing how everything, from databases to user interfaces, will be structured and integrated.
Visualization is Key: The design phase is where clients get a tangible representation of their software solution. Through detailed diagrams, wireframes, and mockups, clients can visualize the architecture, database design, infrastructure, technology, and security measures. This visual element is critical as it provides a clear picture of the software’s design and how each component interconnects.
Approval and Collaboration: All designs eventually need the client’s nod. Before advancing to the development phase, it’s ensured that the client approves the design. They must see and understand the envisioned solution based on their requirements. This collaborative approach ensures alignment between the client’s expectations and the implementation.
To underscore the significance of the design phase, a study by Gartner revealed that a staggering 70% of software defects are introduced during this stage. However, when executed correctly, good design proves to be a boon. An IBM study showcased that a well-designed software system can lead to savings of up to 50% of the total development cost.
To wrap up, the design phase is not merely about aesthetics. It’s a meticulous process that requires in-depth understanding, visualization, and collaboration. It’s about laying down the blueprints, deciding on the engine type, and finalizing the software’s look and feel, all based on the client’s needs and requirements.
Stay tuned for the next segment of our SDLC series where we delve into the development phase, translating these designs into functional software!
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