If your business is handling multiple IT applications, it is important to find the best practices for optimum planning and management. Regardless of the development model you choose for your business’ IT applications, there are six stages or phases that help you organize and execute applications.

At each phase, you are required to determine the deliverables that enable the next stage in the life cycle of an IT application. Every life cycle model consists of six phases that include gathering of information and analysis, designing, coding and implementation, testing, application deployment, and regular maintenance.

Gathering information and analyzing

All IT applications begin with gathering of essential requirements and information for a fully functional and profitable portfolio. This phase is headed by stakeholders and project managers where important information surrounding the project is determined. Details like who will use the applications, system structure and architecture, as well as data input and output are discussed. After these general details and requirements are gathered, you can proceed to analyze these requirements and find ways to make the project effective and cost-friendly.

You can also create a specifications document that highlights all necessary information, processes, details, and guidelines to proceed to the next life cycle phase of the IT application.

Designing

During this stage in the life cycle of IT applications, you must decide the necessary parameters for the specific application and design it accordingly. Consider your hardware needs, system requirements, system architecture as well as other specifications before allowing the project to proceed to the next stage – implementation.

Implementation and testing

One of the longest phases in the life cycle of IT application is coding and implementation. Depending on the instructions received on design, structure, and customization of applications for your unique business, these applications are developed. After completion, they are tested for efficacy, accuracy, and several other parameters that make them ideal for your business. At this stage, you should ensure that the application fulfills its unique functions for your business and conduct tests like unit testing, system testing, integration testing, and acceptance testing.

Deployment and maintenance

After the testing phase is complete and successful, you can continue to use the application for your business or deliver to your clients for deployment. However, your responsibility doesn’t end there. It is important to carry out regular maintenance checks to detect problems in the early stages and solve them immediately. Any measures or processes taken to ensure smooth operation of IT applications can be counted as maintenance.