Guidelines:
- Understand the spreadsheet development life cycle
Spreadsheets go through a life cycle, just like other software, from the time when a problem is identified through to the time when the spreadsheet is no longer needed.
In order to use spreadsheets most effectively, we need to understand each phase of the spreadsheet development life cycle.
Phases of the Spreadsheet Development Life Cycle
The phases of the Spreadsheet Development Life Cycle (SDLC) are:
- Planning. Identify a problem, define potential solutions, and consider resources needed.
- Analysis. Decide on the solution method, specify requirements, and allocate resources.
- Design. Create a specification to meet the requirements, incorporating stakeholder feedback.
- Construction. Apply the design by constructing the spreadsheet.
- Testing. Ensure that the spreadsheet solves the problem and works correctly.
- Implementation. Distribute the spreadsheet and train the users. Maintain backup versions.
- Archive. Withdraw the spreadsheet from use and archive it.
The SDLC is shown in the figure below.
The figure indicates the relative proportion of time that is typically devoted to each phase of the life cycle. For example, the Construction and Testing phases typically require the most time, and they should receive approximately equal time. That is, we should spend as much time testing a spreadsheet as we do constructing it.
The allocation of time to each phase should adapt to the circumstances. For example, a spreadsheet that is built for someone else may need more time in the Implementation phase, especially if formal training is needed.
A spreadsheet typically goes through the cycle many times during its life before it is archived. Progressing through the SDLC often requires reverting to an earlier phase. For example, Testing will almost certainly find errors, which require modification in the Construction phase and may require stepping back to the Planning, Analysis, and/or Design phases to reconsider earlier decisions.
