Rapid Application Development: Explanation

Rapid Application Development: Explanation

Introduction

The concept of rapid application development (RAD) first emerged in the 1980s. Therefore, it is not a new concept in software development. However, unlike the waterfall approach, it is not an all-purpose solution. Rather, it is a method of continuous growth of development philosophies in reaction to the needs of the period.

Rapid Application Development (RAD) should be employed where the needs changes during the project and working prototypes are to be delivered to the clients in small iterations of 2-3 months.

What is a RAD Model?

In software development, Rapid Application Development (RAD) is an effective approach that promotes rapid prototyping and quick feedback over time-consuming development and testing cycles. With rapid application development, developers might make some modifications and changes to a software product in a shorter time than with traditional methodologies.

The Rapid Application Development (RAD) approach came into the picture when developers found that the traditional waterfall development approach was not as per the expectations. There is a critical flaw in the waterfall approach because after the program has advanced to the testing stage, the software’s main operations and features cannot be changed. Because of that, the needs of developers are not completely fulfilled.

Different Phases of RAD Model

  1. Planning: In this phase, various techniques are used like brainstorming, task analysis, form analysis, user scenarios, FAST (Facilitated Application Development Technique), etc. to develop an efficient structured plan.
  2. User feedback: In the second phase, user feedback is taken and prototypes are developed using the development tools. In simple words, the re-examination and validation of the data collected in the first phase take place.
  3. Development and Delivery: In this phase, improvement of the prototype and delivery takes place, and the processes and data models are transformed into the ultimate working product using effective automated tools.
  4. Acceptance Testing: In the last phase, the testing of all the interfaces between the independent modules developed by different teams takes place using effective automated tools and finally the product is delivered.

The task includes creating a rapid prototype, supplying it to the customer, and accepting feedback.

Pros and Cons of the RAD Model

Pros of the RAD Model

  • Using reusable elements assists in reducing the overall cycle time of the project.
  • In the primary stages, feedback from the customer is obtainable.
  • Costs are reduced as fewer developers are required.
  • Strong development tools help in providing improved products in a relatively shorter time.
  • Through different stages, the advancement and development of the project can be estimated.
  • Due to short iteration periods, the changing needs can easily be adapted.
  • This model is very flexible to accept new changes.
  • Every stage of RAD gives the consumer the functionality that is of the highest priority.

Cons of the RAD Model

  • Proficient professionals are required to operate powerful and efficient tools.
  • The project could fail if there are no reusable components.
  • To finish the project on time, the team leader must collaborate with the developers and customers.
  • This model cannot be used by systems that cannot be modularized.
  • Throughout the life cycle, client involvement is needed.
  • It is not ideal for small-scale projects as the expense of using automated tools and techniques will be higher than the whole budget of the project.