What are the phases of a software development lifecycle process model?

• A. Planning and requirements analysis, designing, defining, developing, testing, and maintenance
• B. Planning and requirements analysis, defining, designing, developing, testing, and maintenance
• C. Defining, planning and requirements analysis, designing, developing, testing, and maintenance
• D. Planning and requirements analysis, defining, designing, testing, developing, and maintenance

Answer: (B)

The correct answer encompasses the necessary steps in the software development lifecycle (SDLC), correctly capturing the progression from the initial stages of planning through to maintenance.

In a typical SDLC model, the phases often include:

1. Planning and Requirements Analysis: This phase involves understanding what the users need from the software and defining the requirements clearly. It sets the foundation for the entire project.

2. Defining: While not always explicitly labeled as a separate phase, defining generally refers to the detailed documentation of the requirements that were gathered and planned.

3. Designing: After requirements are established, the system architecture and design are laid out, specifying how the software will function and interact with other systems.

4. Developing: This phase covers the actual coding and building of the software based on the designs created.

5. Testing: Once development is complete, the software undergoes rigorous testing to identify and resolve defects or any issues that may affect its performance.

6. Maintenance: This phase involves updating and improving the software post-deployment, ensuring it continues to meet user needs and performance standards over time.

This sequence captures a logical flow where each phase builds on the previous one, leading to a successful software