The following paper discusses the basic differences between spiral and waterfall models of Information systems Life Cycle. The paper describes and defines Information systems Life Cycle and its application across the industry and how it is useful in solving problems and achieving results.
Information systems Life Cycle
In order to achieve any set off tasks, it is imperative to formulate a plan and have a set procedure. In the absence of such a plan, the work is not carried out efficiently and in fact lacks co ordination. In order to combat such inefficiency an overall plan is formulated which is known as Information systems Life Cycle. This is the framework for the procedures that are carried out by organizations for better and cohesive results. The details and steps of a plan are known as methodologies using which the desired results are achieved.
Every organization deals with its needs in different manner hence similarly the Information systems Life Cycle also differs from one organization to another. In the following two models, even though the aim is similar, the methodologies differ and the steps involved vary.
One of the models is a waterfall model while the other one is a spiral model. Waterfall method is a predictive one whereas spiral model is an adaptive one. Waterfall methods are useful in case where requirements are well defined. In case if there is any change in any of the steps, the entire process needs to be undertaken again from the start, as there is no end user feedback taken into consideration.
The spiral method is useful where the requirements as well as the needs are uncertain as it is an extremely flexible model wherein previous stages can be revisited. In this model, every step requires testing so that any error can be revisited and fixed.
The waterfall method is created in the manner of flowing water which means it works on the principles of top to bottom, there is no provision for new changes. Consequently spiral models are best suited for processes associated with risk.
References
1. Frankovich, J. (1998), "Synopsis of the Carnegie Mellon University course on Requirements Engineering," Retrieved from web. http://sern.ucalgary.ca/courses/seng/621/W97/johnf/reqeng.htm.
2. Whitten, J. L., Bentley, L. D., and Dittman, K. C., Systems Analysis and Design Methods, Richard D. Irwin, New York, 1997.
