Rapid Application Development (RAD) is a development model that prioritizes rapid prototyping and quick feedback over long development and testing cycles. With rapid application development, developers can quickly make multiple iterations and updates to the software without having to start from scratch each time. This ensures that the end result is more quality-oriented and meets end-user requirements.
Rapid Application Development (RAD) was developed in the 1980s, so it’s definitely nothing new. But unlike the waterfall model, it is not singular. It is a continuous development of development philosophies according to the needs of the time.
What is Rapid Application Development (RAD)?
RAD is a set of software development techniques largely based on agile development principles. Unlike more traditional, linear approaches like waterfall development, RAD is designed to create rapid prototypes and get the software up and running as quickly as possible.
But what are the reasons companies choose to work with RAD projects over traditional software methods? Let’s have a look at the main benefits of RAD software development.
#1. Shorter development process :-
When it comes to software development, time is money – not only for the customer, but also for the developer. It is in everyone’s interest to complete the application as quickly as possible, unless there are external factors dictating the development plan. Using automated coding standards, the developer can ensure that the route to final product delivery is as short and efficient as possible.
#2. Lower costs :-
Because prototyping is faster in a RAD project, overall development costs can often be reduced compared to a traditional approach. The iterative process allows the customer to evaluate functionality throughout the development process and delete unnecessary functionality before too much time has been spent on it.
#3. Less mistakes :-
An experienced developer is able to apply automation tools and standardised coding to a RAD project, providing consistency and reliability. Not only does this eliminate the risk of bugs, but it also makes long-term support of the code easier.
#4. Faster time to market :-
Developing new software features isn’t always about creating a great solution. Sometimes time to market is crucial to stay competitive. The ability to release a lighter version of an application early can be key to gaining initial market share before the full, feature-rich version hits the market. This can be accounted for by using a RAD approach.
#5. Proven tools :-
Rapid application development is all about speed, accuracy and flexibility. It’s about understanding the key requirements and then applying proven automation tools and code structures to quickly get to a working product. An iterative development approach allows both the developer and customer to work together in a collaborative manner, ultimately resulting in a better quality application.
#6. The importance of planning :-
Here at One Beyond, we pride ourselves on offering complete, no-compromise planning throughout the development project. Rapid development does not mean taking shortcuts – and certainly not that the planning aspect suffers as a result.
Unlike coding and testing, planning is an activity that cannot be automated. It will always require human interaction and communication. And by working closely together, we start a software development project aligned with the client’s business goals.
