So finally, you have made a decision to build a mobile app but not sure where to start and how to proceed with the development process?
Well, if yes, then you are not alone.
With the increasing market competition, businesses are rapidly looking to create a mobile app to become a part of the most thriving industry, which is expected to make $659 billion in revenue by 2026. But unfortunately, they forget the fact that to get your mobile app noticed in this highly competitive market, you need to have a solid strategy on hand.
This is where choosing the right software development methodology is important to achieve success. In this highly competitive digital landscape, the app development methodology you adopt will be the ultimate determining factor between streamlined success and costly failure.
However, now the question is “how to choose the best suitable software development methodologies” when numerous methodologies and strategies are available to assist you.
Each app development methodology offers distinct advantages and workflows, so before you hire software developers to kickstart your project, it is important to evaluate which approach best aligns with your project goals, team structure, and client expectations.
Usually, custom software development companies access a diverse range of methodologies to effectively plan, develop, test, and deploy applications.
But as the software development industry continues to evolve, IT professionals and tech-driven businesses must stay well-versed in the latest and most reliable development methodologies to stay ahead of the curve.
Here, in this blog, we will discuss the best software development methodologies that any top app development company in India can help you adopt it.
Top 7 Best Software Development Methodologies Ruling in 2025
In the fastly changing mobile app development world, the ultimate choice of software development methodology will be greatly depend upon the type of mobile application you are trying to develop for your business.
Whether you’re building a mobile app, an enterprise-grade solution, or a SaaS product, selecting the right software development methodology is essential for ensuring timely delivery, optimal performance, and stakeholder satisfaction.
Let’s explore the top software development methodologies for various projects:
1. Agile Development Methodology
If you’re looking for the right technology to meet dynamic project requirements such as startups and customer-centric applications, then Agile is one of the most popular and flexible methodologies to consider. It majorly focuses on iterative progress through small, manageable increments known as sprints.
Why is it popular among businesses?
- It emphasizes on collaboration and customer feedback.
- Adaptive planning and continuous improvement.
- Delivers functional software quickly.
2. Scrum
If your team is looking for a structured approach within Agile, then Scrum is a framework that you need to focus on. It comes under the umbrella of Agile, which delivers the highest business value in the shortest time through cross-functional teams.
This type of software development approach is considered for gaming or marketing app development.
3. Waterfall Model
The Waterfall model is a traditional methodology where each phase is completed before the next begins. It follows clear documentation at each stage and adopts a linear and sequential process.
So the projects that have low change requirements and are well-defined usually consider this approach, where projects are easily managed. For example, the government or regulatory systems.
4. Lean Development
Inspired by lean manufacturing principles, Lean focuses on delivering value to the customer by eliminating waste. It ensures faster delivery by utilizing minimal resources and empowering teams for better decision-making.
Lean development is an ideal approach for startups and businesses looking to hire app developers with limited budgets looking for efficiency and innovation.
5. DevOps
DevOps combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to improve collaboration and accelerate delivery. It emphasizes automation, continuous integration & delivery (CI/CD), which ultimately helps reduce the development cycle and increases deployment frequency.
Enterprises focusing on scalability, automation, and looking to launch an app faster to the market should consider DevOps.
6. Rapid Application Development (RAD)
This type of software development methodology emphasizes quick development and iteration with user feedback, using prototypes and fast development cycles. It majorly focuses on prioritizing speed over perfection, where user feedback is central to the process. It involves minimal strategy planning, so ideal for MVP development or conducting regular updates.
7. Extreme Programming (XP)
XP is a rigorous Agile methodology that improves software quality and responsiveness through frequent releases. This approach mainly practices like pair programming, test-driven development, and continuous integration; therefore, regular communication and feedback is required.
In fact, even if you choose to software development company, then also regular communication and feedback are required and should include high involvement of the client
Conclusion
No one-size-fits-all approach exists in software development. The best methodology for your project depends on multiple factors including team size, budget, project scope, and delivery timelines. Agile and its variants like Scrum and XP are excellent for most modern digital products, while traditional models like Waterfall may still suit certain industries. However, the ultimate choice of software development methodologies depends upon your project requirements.
Read more- Top app development companies in india
