Comparison of Various Software Development Life Cycle

Prototype Model

The prototype model is used to overcome the limitations of waterfall model. In this model, instead of freezing the requirements before coding or design, a prototype is built to clearly understand the requirements. This prototype is built based on the current requirements. Through examining this prototype, the client gets a better understanding of the features of the final product. The processes involved in the prototyping approach are shown in the figure below.

Advantages of the prototype model

1.    Benefits from user input.

2.    As a working model of the system is provided, users get a better understanding of the system that is being developed.

3.    Errors and risks can be detected at a much earlier stage, as the system is developed using prototypes.

    Disadvantages of the prototype

1.    Increases complexity of the overall system.

2.    Involves exploratory methodology and therefore involves higher risk.

3.    Involves implementing and then repairing the way a system is built, so errors are an inherent part of the development process.