Introduction to Rapid Application Development

the ideas of prototyping and iterative development into a methodology called RAD that focused on developing systems in a short time-frame with small teams of highly qualified, motivated and experienced staff.

Advantages of RAD methodology 

• increased speed:-the goal of delivering applications quickly is addressed through the use of CASE tools which focus on converting requirements to code as quickly as possible
• increased quality:- the quality is defined as both the degree to which a delivered application meets the needs of users as well as the degree to which a delivered system has low maintenance coasts
• early visibility;- because of prototyping
• productivity of developers will be increase

Disadvantages of RAD

• Reduced scalability:- the delivered solution may lack the scalability of a solution that was designed as a full application from the start
• Reduced features:- due to the time boxing , where features are pushed off to later versions in favor of delivering an applications in a short time frame
• less efficient

 Core Elements of RAD

• Prototyping:-is a technique it allows to see flaws and so look for ways to improve the system. it serves as a communications vehicle for allowing persons who require the system to review the proposed user interaction with the system.
• Iterative Development:-iterative development means creating increasingly functional versions of a system in short development cycles . the process is repeated until all functionality has been developed.
• Time Boxing:- time boxing is the process of putting off features to future application versions in order to complete the current version in as short amount of time as possible.
• Parallel Development :- the System is split into subsystems that can be developed and tested autonomously by multiple SWAT(Skilled workers with Advanced Tools) teams operating in parallel.   
• Team Members:- The RAD methodology recommends the use of small teams consists of experienced, versatile and motivated members that are able to perform  multiple roles.
• Management Approach:- in Addition to enforcing a strict timeline, management must focus on team member selection , team motivation and on clearing bureaucratic or political obstacles
• RAD tools:- RAD focus of the latest tools is as important today as it was when the methodology was initially created.