Evolutionary Model
The evolutionary model is a combination of the Iterative and Incremental models of the
software development life cycle. Delivering your system in a big bang release, delivering it in
incremental process over time is the action done in this model. Some initial requirements and
architecture envisioning need to be done. It is better for software products that have their
feature sets redefined during development because of user feedback and other factors.
What is the Evolutionary Model?
The Evolutionary development model divides the development cycle into smaller, incremental
waterfall models in which users can get access to the product at the end of each cycle.
• Feedback is provided by the users on the product for the planning stage of the next
cycle and the development team responds, often by changing the product, plan, or
process.
• Therefore, the software product evolves with time.
• All the models have the disadvantage that the duration of time from the start of the
project to the delivery time of a solution is very high.
• The evolutionary model solves this problem with a different approach.
• The evolutionary model suggests breaking down work into smaller chunks, prioritizing
them, and then delivering those chunks to the customer one by one.
• The number of chunks is huge and is the number of deliveries made to the customer.
• The main advantage is that the customer’s confidence increases as he constantly gets
quantifiable goods or services from the beginning of the project to verify and validate
his requirements.
• The model allows for changing requirements as well as all work is broken down into
maintainable work chunks.
Characteristics of the Evolutionary Model
The Evolutionary Model is characterized by several key features that differentiate it from other
software development methodologies:
1. Iterative and Incremental Development
The heart of the evolutionary model lies in its iterative process. Each iteration, or cycle, results
in a potentially deployable product increment. This iterative process allows for frequent
reassessment and adaptation, making it easier to manage changes in user requirements or
market trends.
2. Active User Involvement
User involvement is crucial in the evolutionary model. Regular feedback from users or
stakeholders is sought after each iteration. This feedback is essential for the next phase of
development, ensuring that the product evolves in line with the user's needs and
expectations.
3. Flexibility and Adaptability
The model is highly adaptable, capable of accommodating changes at any stage of the
development process. This flexibility is especially beneficial in projects where requirements
are expected to evolve or are not fully understood from the onset.
4. Risk Management
Through its iterative nature, the evolutionary model helps in early detection and mitigation of
risks. By handling the most critical or uncertain aspects of the project in the early stages, it
reduces the potential for large-scale failures.
5. Focus on Functional Components
Instead of delivering the entire software in one go, the evolutionary model focuses on building
and improving individual functional components. This approach allows for a more
manageable and gradual enhancement of the software.
6. Continuous Testing and Integration
Since development is done in increments, testing and integration are also continuous
processes. This ensures that issues are identified and resolved promptly, maintaining the
overall quality of the software.
Application of Evolutionary Model
It is used in large projects where you can easily find modules for incremental implementation.
Evolutionary model is commonly used when the customer wants to start using the core
features instead of waiting for the full software.
Evolutionary model is also used in object oriented software development because the system
can be easily portioned into units in terms of objects.
Necessary Conditions for Implementing this Model
• Customer needs are clear and been explained in deep to the developer team.
• There might be small changes required in separate parts but not a major change.
• As it requires time, so there must be some time left for the market constraints.
• Risk is high and continuous targets to achieve and report to customer repeatedly.
• It is used when working on a technology is new and requires time to learn.
Advantages Evolutionary Model
Adaptability to Changing Requirements: Evolutionary models work effectively in projects
when the requirements are ambiguous or change often. They support adjustments and
flexibility along the course of development.
Early and Gradual Distribution: Functional components or prototypes can be delivered early
thanks to incremental development. Faster user satisfaction and feedback may result from
this.
User Commentary and Involvement: Evolutionary models place a strong emphasis on
ongoing user input and participation. This guarantees that the software offered closely
matches the needs and expectations of the user.
Improved Handling of Difficult Projects: Big, complex tasks can be effectively managed with
the help of evolutionary models. The development process is made simpler by segmenting
the project into smaller, easier-to-manage portions.
Disadvantages Evolutionary Model
Communication Difficulties: Evolutionary models require constant cooperation and
communication. The strategy may be less effective if there are gaps in communication or if
team members are spread out geographically.
Dependence on an Expert Group: A knowledgeable and experienced group that can quickly
adjust to changes is needed for evolutionary models. Teams lacking experience may find it
difficult to handle these model's dynamic nature.
Increasing Management Complexity: Complexity can be introduced by organizing and
managing several increments or iterations, particularly in large projects. In order to guarantee
integration and synchronization, good project management is needed.
Greater Initial Expenditure: As evolutionary models necessitate continual testing, user
feedback and prototyping, they may come with a greater starting cost. This may be a problem
for projects that have limited funding.
The evolutionary model is a helpful framework in the quickly evolving field of software
development, where requirements are frequently modified and user expectations change. As
with any development process, optimizing the advantages and minimizing the possible
negatives of evolutionary models in software engineering requires careful evaluation of
project-specific considerations.
