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Introduction
Gone are the days when developing applications was stressful and time-consuming. Today, it's all about faster software development – and the RAD model is leading the charge.
Effective communication, rapid prototyping, and fast project turnaround are what Rapid Application Development helps with. The RAD model in software engineering aims to ease the frustrations of developers by facilitating rapid prototyping, allowing real-time communication, and accurately measuring project progress.
By and large, in this fast-paced tech era, RAD is becoming an increasingly popular software development method to deliver working products faster by reducing planning time and maximizing prototype iterations.
If you’re looking to dive into Rapid Software Development, this post is for you. We’ll detail the RAD model and the steps involved in it. You’ll also see RAD's advantages and disadvantages and what are its major applications in software development.
What Is Rapid Application Development?
Rapid Application Development is an agile project management strategy based on prototyping and customer feedback. It mainly focuses on building a prototype, release cycles, and iterations rather than on costly planning.
The RAD model allows software developers to make multiple iterations and frequent changes in design and functionality without having to start from scratch. This ensures the final product is developed quickly and of high quality and fits perfectly with end-users evolving requirements.
The History of Rapid Application Development
The rapid application development approach was first developed in 1980 by James Martin while he was working with IBM. Later in 1991, he officially introduced the approach as a concept to the software industry by taking inspiration from the work of people like Barry Boehm.
Steps In Rapid Application Development
A rapid application development cycle consists of four steps:
1. Define project requirements
The process begins by defining the broad project requirements, which include goals, expectations, timelines, and budgets. The main benefit of RAD is these requirements are allowed to change at any point in the development cycle.
2. Prototype
Once the project requirements have been specified, the developer starts building the initial model and prototypes. These prototypes are demonstrated to the client to ensure that their requirements are met by identifying what they like and what they don’t.
This step is usually repeated as necessary adjustments are made in prototypes until project requirements are adequately met.
3. Construction & feedback
This is a crucial stage of software development. Rapid construction is where prototype and beta systems are converted into a working model where thorough coding, system testing, and unit integration are done.
Then feedback is collected on the interface and functionality from clients and end users to improve every aspect of the product. When client feedback is positive, developers move toward the next step.
4. Product finalization
The final stage of RAD is product finalization which involves intensive testing, addressing technical issues, debugging, improving stability, and maintenance of the final product before launch.
Pros & Cons Of RAD Model
The RAD software model is a great solution for many applications; however, there are certain advantages and disadvantages of rapid software development you should know about.
Advantages Of The RAD Model
- ➱ Project requirements are flexible for change
- ➱ Priorities customer feedback
- ➱ Iterative releases & faster time to market
- ➱ Better quality product in a shorter time span
- ➱ Accurate measurement of project progress and development
- ➱ More productivity with fewer people
- ➱ Early system integration & risk reduction
- ➱ Reduced costs as a lower number of employees are needed
Disadvantages Of The RAD Model
- ➱ Require technically strong team with highly skilled developers
- ➱ Cannot work with large teams
- ➱ Not suitable for large or complex projects
- ➱ Needs user interference throughout the development cycle
- ➱ Systems that are not modularized cannot use the RAD model
- ➱ More complex to handle
- ➱ Not all applications are compatible with RAD
When To Use A RAD Model?
The RAD model is mainly preferred by small-scale businesses offering innovative products that require high business involvement. Moreover, this approach is used by skilled developers when the client’s project has tight deadlines and needs to build the product as quickly as possible.
If you are thinking if the RAD model is suitable for your software development, check out the below cases when RAD is found to be the best approach to use.
- When the client's requirements are well-known
- The client is ready to be involved throughout the product development process
- The project can be time-boxed
- The functionality can be delivered in increments
- A high level of performance is not required
- The project has low technical risks
- System is modularized
- The project requires a dynamic approach with visible progress
- The product needs to be developed quickly
In a nutshell, the Rapid software development model is an excellent method to use if you have a modularized system, a technically experienced team, the right communication and development tools, a budget for RAD tools, and a client open to this approach.
Develop Faster & Better Software With Polyxer Systems
Rapid application development offers the perfect combination of functionality, speed, and cost savings, making it ideal for small-scale businesses seeking a modern and effective solution built to fit their specific business needs.
Of course, using the RAD model requires significant technical expertise, a dedicated team, and time. If you are looking for exceptional rapid application development services, we would be glad to use our expertise.
Polyxer Systems is the best custom software development company in India, brimming with talented developers specializing in RAD methodologies. By hiring our developers, you can be confident that you have chosen specialists who can assist you throughout your development journey with expert knowledge and guidance.
Contact us today, and let us help you build software faster.
