This article explains the main stages involved in the software development process and highlights the importance of each step in creating successful software.

What is software and why is a structured approach important?

Software is a set of coded instructions given to computer systems. These instructions help both users and organizations automate their daily operations and adapt to digital transformation. However, building functional and stable software requires a systematic approach – a stage-based development process.

Why are software development stages important?

These stages ensure that projects are completed on time and help manage technical risks early in the process. Many software projects are large-scale, and meeting all requirements can be very challenging. Software development stages provide a structured approach and proper management at every level, making them essential for both software companies and clients.

Benefits of software development stages:

• Increased visibility of the development process

• Efficient estimation, planning, and scheduling

• More accurate cost estimation

• Improved customer satisfaction

Software Development Lifecycle

These stages serve as an ideal guide for companies and developers, though some steps may differ based on the team and project.

1. Requirements Gathering and Analysis

The first and perhaps most critical stage is gathering the correct requirements. At this stage, the project goals, user needs, business requirements, and technical expectations are collected and documented.

Key activities:

• Meetings with clients and stakeholders

• Writing detailed requirement documents

• Creating user scenarios

• Identifying technical constraints

2. Planning and Project Management

Once requirements are gathered, a work plan is created. This includes the development timeline, task allocation, selected technologies, and team structure.

Key elements:

• Project timeline

• Team roles and responsibilities

• Risk assessment

• Resource planning
  
  

This stage can follow methodologies like DevOps or Agile for better iteration and collaboration.

3. System and Software Architecture Design

In this stage, the technical foundation of the software is defined. This includes decisions about the tech stack, database systems, system modules, and how those modules will interact.

If the software is provided as a product (SaaP), the system focuses more on local installation and internal resource management. For software as a service (SaaS) models, the architecture is usually cloud-based and scalable.

Want to learn more about SaaP and SaaS? Check out our article “Software: Product or Service?”

4. Design Phase (UX/UI)

User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design are shaped during this stage. The goal is to ensure the software is intuitive and user-friendly.

Key steps:

• Creating wireframes and prototypes

• Applying brand elements such as color palettes and typography

• Optimizing user flows

The design stage defines how end users will interact with the software.

5. Development Stage

This is where the technical implementation takes place. Code is written, features are developed, and initial versions are created. In modern development, frontend, backend, and APIs are typically developed independently.

DevOps practices play a central role in this stage, ensuring speed and stability through automated testing, integration (CI/CD), and deployment tools.

6. Testing and Quality Assurance

Before launch, the software must go through rigorous testing to ensure it works as expected.

Types of testing:

• Manual and automated tests

• Functional testing

• Security testing

• Performance and load testing

• User Acceptance Testing (UAT)

This stage verifies the software is stable, secure, and ready for release.

7. Deployment and Release

After successful testing, the software is delivered to users. In SaaS models, it is deployed on provider servers, while in SaaP models, users receive local installation files.

Key activities:

• Server setup

• Configuration

• Preparing user manuals

• Initial support

8. Technical Support and Ongoing Updates

The software lifecycle does not end with deployment. Continuous support, user feedback, and updates are vital.

Especially in SaaS solutions:

• Automatic updates

• Security patches

• Adding new features

Conclusion

Software development is not just about writing code – it is a strategic process consisting of complex and sequential stages. Proper requirements gathering, user experience planning, technical architecture, and quality assurance are each critical to success. Whether the software is delivered as a SaaS or SaaP solution, professional software development is only possible through a structured, step-by-step approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How many stages are involved in software development?

2. Which stage is most important for small businesses?
For small businesses, requirements gathering and planning are especially crucial. With limited resources, a strong start has a direct impact on future success.

3. Why is the testing stage important?

4. Can software be delivered directly to users without testing?

5. Is technical support necessary for all software?
Yes. Whether SaaP or SaaS, technical support ensures users receive help when needed and that the software remains functional and up-to-date.