Iterative development is an approach to software development where a project is divided into smaller cycles or iterations, each of which results in a potentially shippable product increment.
Instead of trying to deliver the entire product at once, iterative development focuses on delivering small, manageable pieces of functionality over time.
This approach allows for frequent feedback, adaptation to changing requirements, and incremental improvements to the product.
Key characteristics of iterative development include:
Repetitive cycles: The development process is broken down into a series of iterations, with each iteration typically lasting from one to four weeks. At the end of each iteration, a usable and potentially shippable product increment is produced.
Continuous refinement: Each iteration builds upon the work done in previous iterations, gradually refining and enhancing the product. Feedback from stakeholders and users is incorporated into subsequent iterations, ensuring that the product evolves to meet their needs.
Flexibility: Iterative development allows for changes to be made throughout the development process. Requirements can be adjusted, new features can be added, and issues can be addressed based on feedback received during each iteration.
Risk reduction: By delivering working software incrementally, iterative development helps to mitigate the risk of project failure. Problems and challenges are identified early and can be addressed before they escalate, reducing the likelihood of costly rework or project delays.
Incremental delivery: Iterative development enables the delivery of value to customers early and often. Instead of waiting until the entire project is complete, stakeholders receive usable functionality at regular intervals, allowing them to start realizing benefits sooner.
Adaptability: Iterative development is well-suited to projects with evolving or unclear requirements. Since the development process is flexible and responsive to change, the product can be adjusted as new information becomes available or as priorities shift.
Iterative development is often associated with Agile methodologies such as Scrum and Extreme Programming (XP), although it can be applied in other development approaches as well. By breaking the project into manageable iterations and focusing on delivering value incrementally, iterative development enables teams to build high-quality software that meets the needs of stakeholders while minimizing risk and maximizing flexibility.
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