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SDLC Models Comparison

In this tutorial, we will learn about the comparisons between different SDLC models in Software Engineering. By Monika Sharma Last updated : April 05, 2023

Software Lifecycle Models

There are five software lifecycle models that are commonly used while developing any software. These are as follows:

1. The classical waterfall model
2. The iterative waterfall model
3. The prototyping model
4. The evolutionary model
5. The spiral model

Now, let us compare each of them based on their features, and list each of their pros and cons. Also, we will list the situations in which the particular model should be used and also the situations where these models must not be used.

Comparisons of various software lifecycle models (SDLC Models)

The comparison table of these models is as follows:

Software lifecycle Model	Features	Advantages	Disadvantages
Classical waterfall model	Has defined phases Follows all phases in the mentioned order The flow of phase execution cannot be broken Iteration is not allowed	Simple to use, understand and implement Managed work	No scope of risk management New features cannot be added or modified in the software after the development has begun. Error is detected at the end of every phase
Iterative lifecycle model	Enhanced classical waterfall model in which Iterations are allowed Most commonly used	Risk management is possible Updates and modification can be made in any phase Easy to understand and implement	Risks cannot be handled efficiently Developer's idle hours are too high
Prototyping model	The prototype of the model is made before the actual software User Interface usually is much more attractive in this model	It can be used where the user requirements are not defined. Takes user feedback from time to time User's satisfaction is a priority here	Is costly The communication that is required between the customer and the developer is not always possible to get Takes a lot of time to develop
Evolutionary model	Software is developed through different modules in an incremental manner This model deals with the different versions of the software Each version is an enhanced version of the previous one	Large projects can be developed efficiently through this model Every version is capable of to fully function the mentioned functionalities	Is suitable only for large projects Takes time to develop Module integration is difficult
Spiral model	The phases are divided in the form of loops Further, the loops are divided into four quadrants Each block of this model contains a set of activities that the software performs	Most versatile model Able to manage almost every type of risk Complex projects can be created using this model	Is complex to understand and implement Not suitable for ordinary software models Costly to develop Time consuming

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