RAPID APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT(RAD)
The Rapid Application Development (RAD) model is a software
development process that prioritizes a quick development cycle by emphasizing
the reuse of software components, iterative testing, and user feedback. Here’s
a detailed breakdown of the RAD model:
Key Concepts of RAD:
- Faster Development: RAD aims to deliver products more quickly by compressing the development cycle.
- Higher Quality: RAD encourages frequent testing and iteration, leading to improved quality.
Features of RAD:
- Workshops and Focus Groups: Requirements are gathered interactively with users and stakeholders, ensuring that the product meets their needs.
- Prototyping and Iteration: Early prototypes are developed and tested by users, allowing for quick adjustments.
- Reusability: Existing software components are reused, reducing development time.
- Rigid Schedule: A strict timeline is maintained, with improvements deferred to future versions.
- Less Formality: Communication within the team is informal, facilitating rapid decision-making and adjustments.
Phases of RAD:
1. Business Modelling:
Defines the
information flow within the business by answering key questions about data, its
sources, destinations, and processes.
2. Data Modelling:
Refines the data
from business modeling into data objects and identifies the relationships
between them.
3. Process Modelling:
Transforms data
models into process models that describe how data is manipulated to meet
business needs.
4. Application Generation:
Utilizes automated
tools, including 4th generation languages, to generate the software
application.
5. Testing & Turnover:
Since many
components are reused and pre-tested, overall testing time is reduced, though
new parts and interfaces still require thorough testing.
When to Use RAD:
- When the project needs to be completed quickly (2-3 months).
- When the requirements are well-defined.
- When technical risks are low.
- When the budget allows for automated code generation tools.
Advantages of RAD:
- Flexibility for changes.
- Rapid adaptability to user feedback.
- High-priority functionality delivered quickly to customers.
- Reduced development time.
- Increased reuse of existing components.
Disadvantages of RAD:
- Requires highly skilled designers.
- Not suitable for all types of applications.
- Less effective for smaller projects.
- Not suitable when there are high technical risks.
- Requires active user involvement throughout the process.
