Rapid Application Development Methodologies

If you’re a developer or an online business owner, we’re sure you have heard of Rapid Application Development. Let’s take a closer look at RAD.

What is Rapid Application Development (RAD)?

RAD is a speedy method of developing apps whereby continuous feedback and different versions are used to assist in the process. It prioritizes user feedback over expensive planning. It is not a definite model of app development. But it is more like an approach to developing apps that yield better results.

With the competition in the market growing, methodologies such as RAD are growing in popularity. The technology boom has brought about the need to produce effective results within a short span of time. Therefore, experienced developers use RAD to develop apps to manage tight deadlines.

Where It All Started

RAD was introduced in the 1990s by a technology consultant named James Martin. He was interested in developing a better method of app development using the software’s malleability. Traditional app development methods take a lot of time and effort to bring about a desirable outcome.

Also, RAD precedes the history of agile project management and was its precursor.

Rapid Application Development prioritizes rapid prototyping and frequent iterations over planning. Additionally, it offers a lot of flexibility in app development. It is particularly useful to deliver results within a short period. Also, RAD accepts changes with an open mind and no inhibitions. The process of app development with RAD ends only when the client is satisfied.

RAD Methodology

Although there are no defined rules to enact RAD, there are steps that developers have to go through. The project is often open-ended and not bound by a planned schedule. Most importantly, the RAD process focuses on going with the flow more than following set schedules.

Let’s take a look at different phases in the process.

1. Identifying project requirements

The project begins with the clients defining their requirements loosely. It gives direction to the project. Through effective communication, key objectives are set. Keeping the vision in mind, the team moves forward with the RAD process.

2. Prototyping

Once the type of project to be built has been identified, developers start with building models and prototypes. With each prototype, the team moves closer to what the client requires. This step minimizes errors in software.

3. Evolving with user feedback

Constant feedback is vital to the process. Therefore, developers collect the feedback of stakeholders and implement changes to the app accordingly. This helps in significantly improving all aspects of the app. Consistent input drives the RAD method forward.

4. Finalizing

Full-scale testing occurs to ensure the app’s functionality. After technical errors are dealt with, developers present the product to the clients. The project ends when the client is happy with the final outcome.

Advantages of RAD

The Rapid Application Development methodology opens up a lot of possibilities for developers and clients. With RAD, delivering the desired outcome is possible within a few days.

Conclusion

Rapid Application Development focuses on user feedback and not on fixed schedules. RAD offers greater flexibility during app development. As a result, experienced teams opt for this method to develop apps to keep up with their fast-paced environment.

With RAD, developers and clients can save time and effort.

   

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