SOFTWARE PROCESS MODELS

A software engineer or a team of engineers must incorporate a development strategy that encompasses the process, methods, and tools layers.

This strategy is often referred to as a process model or a software engineering paradigm.

A process model for software engineering is chosen based on the nature of the project and application, the methods and tools to be used, and the controls and deliverables that are required.

Four distinct stages are encountered: status quo, problem definition, technical development, and solution integration. Status quo “represents the current state of affairs”

Problem definition identifies the specific problem to be solved; technical development solves the problem through the application of some technology, and solution integration delivers the results (e.g., documents, programs, data, new business function, new product) to those who requested the solution in the first place.