The 8 Best Software Development Models

Welcome to Daxima’s guide on the best software development models. 

In this blog, our dev team will walk you through our 8 favorite software development lifecycle models, which types of projects each one is best for, and the pros and cons of each based on our two decades of experience (we are prehistoric…)

We started building custom applications way back in 2003. Since then, we’ve completed more than 150 projects across different sectors like mobile apps, payment software, educational software, and machine learning tools.

Long story short, we’ve used dozens of different development models for different types of projects, so we’ve seen firsthand how they affect product quality, time to market, budget, and stakeholder happiness.

We have to warn you: If you choose the wrong development framework, you could waste months of time, spend all of your funding, and still not be ready to hit the market.

Please read this guide carefully and choose wisely.

Let’s get to it.

Key Takeaways

• The Waterfall Model: This is a straightforward, linear approach where each phase is completed before moving to the next. It’s easy to follow and ensures nothing gets overlooked. It’s best for projects with fixed requirements, like building a payroll system or creating compliance software.
• The V-Model: This testing-focused model ties every development phase directly to a testing phase. It’s ideal for projects with strict quality standards, like medical device software or aviation systems.
• The Iterative and Incremental Model: This flexible approach builds software in small, manageable cycles, so your team can refine and adjust based on feedback. It’s perfect for projects like a CRM tool or a website redesign.
• The RAD (Rapid Application Development) Model:RAD involves rapid prototyping and frequent user feedback, so you can deliver results quickly. It’s great for projects on tight deadlines, like an interactive microsite or a marketing campaign app.
• The Spiral Model: The spiral model is our top choice for large, high-risk projects like defense systems or complex enterprise software.
• The Prototype Model: This approach develops early prototypes to clarify requirements and reduce misunderstandings. It works well for conceptual projects, like testing an innovative app idea or designing a new hardware interface.
• The Agile Model: Agile is when you break projects down into sprints, so you can frequently update and iterate. If you’ve been online at all recently, you’ve heard developers raving about it. It’s super popular these days. It’s ideal for dynamic, evolving projects, like mobile app development or SaaS products.
• The Big Bang Model: This model is when you just hit the ground running and start developing. There’s minimal planning involved. It’s best for small, low-stakes projects, like a utility app or a quick proof of concept.

What Are Software Development Models?

Software development models are structured processes that define how software is planned, developed, tested, and delivered. 

They create a clear blueprint for teams, which helps them stay organized, meet deadlines, and manage resources effectively. Without one, your team will be disorganized, waste resources, and open your project up to errors. It’ll be a nightmare.

A good example of a software development model in use is the Agile model. It’s ideal for dynamic projects like building a customer-facing mobile app, where user feedback and quick iterations are critical to success.

At Daxima, we’ve seen how the right development model transforms projects. For a client in the healthcare industry, we chose the V-Model to make sure we tested everything at every stage (to make sure regulators were happy).

This approach caught potential issues early, resulting in an airtight system that passed strict regulatory requirements. 

If we hadn’t used the V-model, who knows how much longer and more expensive the project would have been.

Importance of Choosing the Correct Model

Choosing the right software model is important because it shapes how your project is planned, built, and delivered. The right model ensures your team stays organized, works efficiently, and delivers software that fits your budget, time-frame, and end goal. 

For instance, Agile is great for projects with changing requirements, while Waterfall suits fixed-scope projects. Picking the wrong model can lead to wasted time and resources.

Here’s a real-world example… 

If you use Waterfall for a dynamic app development project, the rigid phases can make it hard to adjust as new requirements come up (e.g, user feedback shows that certain features aren’t ideal). 

This can delay changes, increase costs, and leave users with an outdated product. On the other hand, Agile allows flexibility, letting teams adapt quickly to feedback and produce a product that meets evolving needs.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing the correct development model:

• Better Organization: Keeps tasks and phases clear and manageable.
• Efficient Use of Resources: Saves time, money, and team effort.
• Reduced Risks: Identifies and addresses problems early.
• Higher Quality Output: Ensures thorough testing and reliable results.
• Adaptability: Handles changes in requirements smoothly.
• Faster Delivery: Streamlines workflows for quicker time-to-market.
• Improved Collaboration: Keeps stakeholders involved and aligned.
• Easier Maintenance: Supports long-term updates and scalability.

Popular Software Development Models

Here are some of the most commonly used models:

Waterfall Model

The Waterfall Model is one of the simplest and most traditional approaches to software development. It works best for projects with clear, fixed requirements—like creating a payroll system or building a straightforward website. If you know exactly what you need from start to finish, this model keeps everything organized and predictable.

Here’s how it works: the project is broken into distinct phases—requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. You complete and approve one phase before moving on to the next. This is an extremely rigid and detailed way to build software that makes sure every detail is exactly the way you want it. We do not recommend it for things like mobile apps where user feedback matters most. This is for big projects with psychotic levels of detail.

The big advantage of the Waterfall Model is its clarity. Everyone knows what to expect at each stage, which makes it easy to plan and track progress. However, its rigidity is also its downside. If requirements change mid-project, going back to make adjustments is practically impossible. That’s why they call it the waterfall method: once the water falls down, it can’t come back up.

That’s why it’s ideal for projects where changes are unlikely and the path forward is clear.

Advantages of the Waterfall Model

• Simple and easy to understand.
• Works well for projects with clear and fixed requirements.
• Progress is easy to track due to its structured approach.
• Ideal for smaller projects or those in industries with strict regulatory standards.

Disadvantages of the Waterfall Model

• Not flexible; changes are difficult to incorporate once a phase is completed.
• Delays in one phase can impact the entire project timeline.
• Not suitable for projects with evolving requirements.
• Testing happens late, making it harder to catch and fix early-stage errors.

How We Feel About the Waterfall Model

At Daxima, we recognize that the Waterfall Model has its place, especially in projects where requirements are stable and clearly defined from the start.

However, it’s not ideal for modern apps where everything moves so fast.

We believe businesses need more adaptive and iterative approaches to keep up with evolving market demands and emerging technologies.

V-Model (Verification and Validation)

The V-Model, or Verification and Validation Model, is a structured approach to software development that emphasizes thorough testing at every stage. It’s perfect for projects with strict quality standards, like medical devices or financial software, where reliability and accuracy are extremely important.

The development process is mapped out in a “V” shape. On the left side, you go through phases like requirements gathering, system design, and detailed design. For every phase, there’s a corresponding testing phase on the right side of the “V,” such as unit testing, integration testing, and system testing. This ensures that as the project moves forward, every piece is validated against the original requirements.

The biggest advantage of the V-Model is its focus on quality. By pairing each development phase with a testing phase, it catches issues early, saving time and money later. However, like the Waterfall Model, it’s less flexible. If requirements change during development, adapting can be challenging and may disrupt the entire process.

That’s why the V-Model works best for projects where requirements are stable and the cost of errors is high.

Advantages of the V-Model

• Testing is integrated throughout the development process, ensuring early error detection.
• Provides a clear structure for both development and quality assurance.
• Ensures thorough documentation for each phase.
• Well-suited for projects with strict quality requirements, such as healthcare or aerospace.

Disadvantages of the V-Model

• Rigid and not adaptable to changes in requirements.
• Testing phases can add significant time to the project timeline.
• Requires detailed initial planning, which may be challenging for complex projects.
• Not ideal for projects where requirements are expected to evolve.

How We Feel About the V-Model

We value the V-Model’s focus on quality and its systematic approach to testing. It’s ideal for industries that require strict compliance and reliability.

But it’s a bit like the Waterfall model in that it’s not ideal for the modern tech industry. Things move so fast these days, and there’s a huge focus on user experience, so the V-Model isn’t our favorite choice. It can limit innovation and adaptability.

The team here at Daxima recommends this model only for projects with fixed, well-documented requirements and a high emphasis on quality assurance.

Iterative and Incremental Model

The Iterative and Incremental Model breaks the project into smaller, more manageable pieces. We recommend it for projects where requirements may evolve over time or when feedback is needed early, like building a customer-facing app or developing a complex web platform.

If you choose this model, you’ll break the project down into small chunks, and then develop, test, and refine each chunk in cycles (“iterations”). In the first iteration, you create a basic version of the software with core functionality. Then you get to testing and receiving feedback from your users. As you go along, more features are added, and existing ones are improved based on the feedback you receive.

The Iterative and Incremental model is highly adaptable, which makes it a great choice for modern app-addicted customers.

But here’s what we like most: You don’t need to know every detail to get started. Instead, just adjust on the fly, which reduces the risk of delivering a product that nobody wants. 

The downside, however, is that the process can take longer if the project isn’t well-managed, and frequent iterations may require extra coordination.

This model works best with projects where user feedback and evolving requirements are common, like mobile apps.

Advantages of the Iterative and Incremental Model

• Accommodates changing requirements throughout the project.
• Delivers a working product early, allowing users to provide feedback.
• Reduces risks by focusing on smaller, manageable parts of the project.
• Testing is continuous, improving quality and reliability.

Disadvantages of the Iterative and Incremental Model

• Requires careful planning and management to avoid scope creep.
• Can be challenging to estimate costs and timelines accurately.
• Initial versions may lack complete functionality, which can frustrate stakeholders.
• Success depends heavily on regular communication and collaboration.

How We Feel About the Iterative and Incremental Model

The Iterative and Incremental Model is an excellent choice for projects in the current app market, because it’s so flexible and easy to get started. You don’t need to plan out every little detail. Just wing it, and let’s see what happens.

We recommend it for apps where you expect things to evolve based on customer feedback. We’re working with several clients at the moment using this model, and things are going well.

Rapid Application Development (RAD) Model

The Rapid Application Development (RAD) Model is perfect for you if speed is your #1 priority. 

The TL;DR on RAD is that it focuses on rapid prototyping and iterative improvements. If you’re developing a prototype for a client demo or creating a time-sensitive marketing tool, RAD is the answer. 

Let’s cover how it works quickly.

RAD emphasizes building functional software in short cycles with continuous user feedback.

Instead of following a rigid plan, the development process is more like “let’s hit the ground running and see what people think”.

The project starts with defining basic requirements, followed by building prototypes, gathering feedback, and refining the software. This cycle repeats until the final product is complete.

This is by far the fastest method there is. 

Since you’re delivering prototypes and working with real-time feedback, it’s easier to make adjustments and ensure the final product is something that people actually want to use. 

As far as the drawbacks go, RAD requires close collaboration with users and a skilled, dedicated team. Without those, the process can stall or result in an incomplete product.

RAD works best for projects with a tight deadline and where user involvement is high throughout development.

Advantages of the RAD Model

• Short development cycles allow for faster delivery.
• Continuous user feedback improves product alignment with business needs.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing requirements during development.
• Reduces development risk by identifying issues early through prototyping.

Disadvantages of the RAD Model

• Requires highly skilled teams to manage rapid cycles effectively.
• Not ideal for large, complex projects or those requiring strict documentation.
• Heavy reliance on user involvement can delay progress if feedback is slow.
• May lead to reduced scalability and maintainability if not carefully managed.

How We Feel About the RAD Model

At Daxima, we use RAD any time we need to pump out an app quickly or get a prototype to users ASAP. It’s not great for detailed projects that require amazing accuracy. But any time we need something done fast, RAD is the go-to

Its emphasis on user feedback ensures that the final product closely matches user needs. For example, say you need an event app specifically for one group of people or a company needs an internal app for their team (and they plan to work closely with you on it). BOOM, RAD is the way to go.

Spiral Model

The Spiral Model is an approach to development that’s ideal for large, high-risk projects, like creating complex enterprise systems or mission-critical software for industries like healthcare or aerospace. This model is designed to identify and manage risks early while allowing for iterative improvements.

Here’s a quick example: In the aerospace industry, companies could use the Spiral Model for developing a spacecraft navigation system. The team would begin with a basic prototype and identify risks, such as trajectory errors or hardware issues. From there, they’d refine the software through testing, feedback, and risk mitigation. This would ensure the final product is safe, reliable, and meets strict aerospace standards.

OK, still with us? Here’s a bit on how the Spiral Model works in more detail.

The development process is divided into cycles (“spirals”) where each loop includes four key phases—planning, risk analysis, engineering, and evaluation. After completing one spiral, the product evolves with added functionality, and the process repeats. Each iteration builds on the previous one while addressing potential risks at every stage.

The Spiral Model is extremely complex and time-consuming, but it’s 100% necessary when lives are on the line. We do not recommend it for smaller projects.

Advantages of the Spiral Model

• Focuses on risk management, reducing potential project failures.
• Highly flexible, allowing for changes at any stage.
• Continuous feedback ensures the product meets requirements.
• Suitable for large, complex, and high-risk projects.

Disadvantages of the Spiral Model

• Can be costly and time-consuming due to its focus on risk analysis.
• Requires specialized skills to manage risks effectively.
• Complex structure may not suit small or straightforward projects.
• Success depends on detailed documentation and strong project management.

How We Feel About the Spiral Model

We love the Spiral Model for projects with significant risks or uncertainties. Its iterative nature and emphasis on risk management align well with high-stakes industries.

However, it’s overkill for smaller projects or those with clear and stable requirements. There’s a big difference between developing the next Angry Birds and developing the next Mars Rover.

We recommend the Spiral Model for businesses looking to tackle large, intricate projects with a focus on minimizing risks.

Prototype Model

The Prototype Model is for creating early versions of software to clarify requirements and gather user feedback. We recommend it for projects where the final product is unclear, such as designing a new user interface or testing a groundbreaking app idea.

A good example of using the Prototype model is developing a new e-commerce app. The team creates a basic prototype with essential features like browsing and checkout. Users test it and provide feedback, such as improving navigation or adding filters. The team then refines the prototype until it evolves into a fully functional app that meets user expectations.

When using the Prototype Model, developers build a simple prototype with basic functionality. Users then test it and provide feedback to help the team improve the design and features. This process repeats until the prototype evolves into the final product.

The biggest advantage of the Prototype Model is that it reduces misunderstandings and improves overall functionality by involving users early. It’s perfect for projects where user input is critical to defining the product’s direction.

Advantages of the Prototype Model

• Helps clarify user requirements and reduce misunderstandings.
• Allows for early detection of design flaws and gaps in functionality.
• Encourages user involvement, ensuring the final product aligns with expectations.
• Reduces the risk of delivering an unsatisfactory end product.

Disadvantages of the Prototype Model

• Can be time-consuming if too many iterations are needed.
• May lead to unrealistic expectations if users mistake the prototype for the final product.
• Requires skilled teams to build and refine prototypes efficiently.
• Not suitable for projects with rigid timelines or limited budgets.

How We Feel About the Prototype Model

The Prototype Model is great for simpler projects that require a lot of user input like saas tools. If your tool solves a known problem and people will be willing to test it, then prototyping is the way to go.

However, we caution against over-reliance on prototyping, as it can extend timelines if not managed carefully.

We recommend the Prototype Model for projects where user feedback and iterative design are key.

Agile Model

The Agile Model is the most popular form of software development these days. It’s a collaborative approach to development that breaks projects into small, manageable sprints. It’s ideal for projects where requirements evolve, like developing a mobile app or SaaS platform.

Instead of spending months on planning out documentation, Agile focuses on people. In this method, the developer only receives what they need to begin work on the current iteration.

Here’s a bit more on how Agile works…

Teams deliver working versions of the software in short cycles, gathering user feedback at the end of each sprint. This feedback helps shape the next iteration, ensuring the product adapts to user needs throughout development.

The biggest advantage of Agile is that it’s perfect for dynamic projects. However, it requires close team collaboration and active stakeholder involvement.

Real-World Example: Developing a food delivery app with Agile allows teams to release features like order tracking or payment integration in stages, updating based on user feedback until the app is fully optimized.

Advantages of the Agile Model

• Highly adaptable to changing requirements throughout the project.
• Encourages close collaboration between teams and stakeholders.
• Delivers working software early and frequently.
• Reduces risk by addressing issues incrementally.

Disadvantages of the Agile Model

• Requires consistent and active stakeholder involvement.
• Can be challenging to estimate costs and timelines due to evolving requirements.
• Success relies heavily on experienced and self-disciplined teams.
• May not suit projects requiring extensive documentation or strict processes.

How We Feel About the Agile Model

The Agile Model is our favorite method of software development here at Daxima. Its flexibility and focus on user value align perfectly with modern business demands. Using Agile allows us to get quick wins for clients without spending months on gathering documentation and planning things out.

We use Agile principles to deliver quick, incremental results while maintaining adaptability to changes.

Big Bang Model

The Big Bang Model is a simple, unstructured approach to software development that eliminates upfront planning. It’s ideal if you’re working on a small, low-stakes project or internal tools that you don’t plan to sell.

In the Big Bang model, the team dives straight into development with all available resources, focusing on coding and testing without a formal plan or defined phases. The final product emerges after everything is pieced together.

The main advantages are speed and quick wins. Just know that this model is very unpredictable. if the requirements aren’t clear, the end result might miss the mark.

Advantages of the Big Bang Model

• Minimal planning makes it simple to get started quickly.
• Flexible approach allows for last-minute changes.
• Suitable for small projects or teams with a lot of creativity and freedom.
• Requires fewer resources compared to more structured models.

Disadvantages of the Big Bang Model

• High risk of project failure due to lack of structure and planning.
• Difficult to manage timelines, costs, and deliverables.
• Not suitable for large or complex projects.
• Quality and user satisfaction can suffer without proper testing or feedback.

How We Feel About the Big Bang Model

The Big Bang Model is a risky choice in most scenarios. We don’t recommend for most types of products, especially ones that you expect people to pay for.

We know that it’s tempting for most people, because it’s so quick and cheap. And of course, we all want to dive right in and start working on projects.

But it lacks the structure needed for consistent success.

In today’s market, businesses benefit more from structured, iterative approaches.

We recommend this model only for small, low-stakes projects where you don’t expect much (and clients don’t expect much from you).

How to Choose the Right Software Development Model

Here at Daxmia, we find that our clients focus on the wrong factors when trying to decide on a software development model.

They think about time or budget rather than thinking about what actually matters most: Making a good product.

And remember, since each project requires a different model depending on size, scope, and time-frame, there are a few things you need to know before selecting a development model. Here’s the process we recommend following:

• Step 1) Define project scope: Start by determining whether your project has a fixed or evolving scope. For a large, clearly defined scope, use structured models like Waterfall or V-Model. For smaller, flexible projects, consider Agile or RAD, which accommodate changing requirements and iterative feedback.
• Step 2) Assess requirements stability: Determine whether your requirements are stable or likely to change. Stable requirements align well with Waterfall or V-Model, ensuring consistency. If requirements are unclear or may shift, go with Agile, Iterative, or Spiral, as they adapt to evolving needs while keeping development on track.
• Step 3) Evaluate team expertise: Assess your team’s skills and experience. Teams experienced in collaboration and iterative feedback thrive with Agile or RAD. If your team prefers structure and clear steps, models like Waterfall or V-Model will fit better. Matching the model to your team’s strengths ensures smoother execution.
• Step 4) Consider time constraints: Analyze how quickly the project needs to be completed. Tight deadlines favor RAD or Big Bang, which prioritize speed over detailed planning. For longer timelines with thorough testing, consider V-Model or Spiral. 
• Step 5) Identify risk level: High-risk projects, such as mission-critical software, benefit from Spiral, which focuses on risk assessment at every stage. For low-risk projects, simpler models like Big Bang or Agile may suffice. Match the model to your project’s complexity and potential for challenges.
• Step 6) Factor in budget: Determine your budget flexibility. Limited budgets work well with Big Bang or RAD, which minimize upfront planning. If the budget allows for detailed testing and iterations, Spiral or Agile are better choices. Choose a model that balances costs with project requirements.
• Step 7) Prioritize user involvement: If user feedback is central to success, opt for Agile, RAD, or Prototype models, which encourage collaboration throughout development. For projects with predefined goals and minimal user input, Waterfall or V-Model are better options. Choose based on the level of user engagement needed.
• Step 8) Match to project goals: Finally, align the model with your project’s goals. For rigid, compliance-focused goals, use Waterfall or V-Model. For flexible, evolving goals, Agile or Iterative are better. Defining clear goals ensures the model you choose directly supports the outcome you’re aiming for.

The Future of Software Development Models

The future of software development lies in flexibility and adaptability. Businesses want faster delivery and better quality, which is driving the rise of hybrid models that mix the best parts of different approaches. 

Agile and DevOps are leading the charge because they focus on teamwork and continuous improvement. This helps teams adapt quickly to changing market needs. That’s why we use it for most of our projects here at Daxmia.

New technologies like AI and machine learning are also reshaping how we build software. Automation is speeding up coding, testing, and deployment, while cloud computing and microservices make software more scalable and easier to integrate.

At Daxima, we embrace these trends to stay ahead. By combining the latest technologies and proven methods, we deliver solutions that are scalable, efficient, and ready for the future. We believe the key is agility, collaboration, and smart use of technology to get the best results for your projects.

Conclusion

If you choose the wrong software development model, things will NOT go well. In fact, many of our clients come to us from other development firms complaining that they went over budget, the project took months to complete, and they didn’t get anything close to what they asked for.

That’s probably because the development agency chose the wrong development model.

Each model offers unique strengths and challenges, so you need to choose the one that fits your project’s specific goals, timeline, and resources. 

Whether you value flexibility, structure, speed, or quality, understanding these approaches can help you navigate the complexities of software development with confidence.

At Daxima, we pride ourselves on tailoring our processes to meet our clients’ needs, leveraging our expertise to recommend the best model for every project. 

As the industry evolves, we remain committed to delivering innovative, efficient, and future-ready solutions. 

By selecting the right development model and partnering with the right team, you can turn your vision into a reality while achieving exceptional results.