How do you choose the best SDLC model for your project?

I agree. We use waterfall when requirements are well known, clear and stable. However if requirements are not fully known or are complex, as well as might change quickly, better to go with Agile. But there is a third approach as well when none of the above approaches work individually and we need a hybrid approach, where some of the project phases can be worked out with Waterfall model and some with Agile depending upon the combination of all the factors.

Depends on the kind of project we are executing. For example, if the ask is for a new release with enhancements that originated from high level requirements, however it needs a tailored UX/VD with client prioritizing the delivery list at a given point in time, opt for Agile methodologies e.g. Scrum, SAFe, etc. If the project is already in BAU like an operations support or AMS contract where the minor enhancements or improvements are driven via tickets or incidents, perhaps a Kanban model may work better. Lastly, if the requirements for a new project phase is clear like we need to build a data integration with Oracle or SAP, it's clear that ask will not change too much, you can set clear timeline and a Waterfall model may suit here..

Deciding the methodology or model for effective project management and delivery, depends on so many factors, and few of them are -check complexity and critical factors of scope. is it complex? -is requirement compete and known and sign off taken. -definition of done and acceptance criteria is well defined - external factors and stakeholders involvement clearly defined or not? -project controlling behaviour and nature? Is clearly defined and known? If above are Yes, then it is recommended to use waterfall, else Only Agile. Though choosing methodology entirely depend upon project requirements and nature of delivery /requirement.

First off, familiarize yourself with SDLC Models To select the right SDLC, you need to have enough experience and be familiar with the SDLC models that will be considered, and understand them properly. Assess the needs of stakeholders. Is the SDLC suitable for: • the size of our team and their skills? • the selected technology used for implementing the solution? • client and stakeholders concerns and priorities? • the geographical situation (distributed team)? • the size and complexity of our software? • the type of projects we do? • our software engineering capability? • project risk and quality insurance?

If requirements are getting change frequently then we should use agile else waterfall is the good option. In waterfall, we have many models T&M, FP, FMB can be used based on client’s ask and delivery. Anyhow if clients is not aware from agile model then it can be difficult to adopt agile. It might take efforts to explain agile methodology and principles. In this case , we need to monitor & review all phases , feedback continuously to get trust from clients for 1st time implementation.

Co-location is not necessarily a determinant but it is a consideration. Agile works well even if your team is in different continents, but it depends on communication and teamwork. Teamwork (and mindset) is much more important in Agile dev. Assess the needs of all the stakeholders. In order to choose the appropriate SDLC against selection criteria, you must study the business domain, stakeholder concerns and requirements, business priorities, your team's technical capability and ability, and technology constraints.

During the project execution, the SDLC can always be optimized. If upcoming changes do not fit with the selected SDLC, it is okay to align and cope with the changes. You can even create your own SDLC model that is optimal for your organization or the type of projects you are involved in.

To choose the best SDLC model: 1. Analyze Requirements: Consider project scope, timeline, and client needs. 2. Evaluate Risks: Assess potential risks and uncertainties. 3. Team Expertise: Align the model with team skills and experience. 4. Client Involvement: Determine client engagement preferences. 5. Flexibility: Choose a model that allows adaptation to changes during the project lifecycle.

Once the criteria and arguments have been defined and discussed with the team, a decision matrix should be created, and each criterion should be given a defined weight and score for each option. After analyzing the results, document the decision in the project library and share it with the relevant stakeholders.