Essential software development methodology

A mature software development methodology has a number of benefits. A methodology minimizes rework by forcing an organization to develop a realistic plan before building the product. It also allows resources to be used most efficiently in the early and later stages of a system's development. Product test plans can be developed early and testing can be initiated at the start of the project rather than the end thus saving great amounts of time and resources. Testing allows a measure of quality to be tracked throughout the development process. It is also key in the establishment of a method of measure for determining when a product is ready to be released. Testing as well as risk management allow project leaders to look ahead at problems that could occur and to make appropriate plans to minimize problem impact.