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Development Methodologies Overview

Evan Bergman and Noel J. Bergman

This course provides an introduction to a few of the main development methodologies used by application programmers today. These methodologies provide a framework and structure for the process of development to ensure teams can work together and all critical steps are followed. We'll discuss the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), Agile concepts, Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery and 12 Factor for cloud development.

No previous development experience is necessary to complete this course, and there are no specific hardware or software requirements outside of the Coursera environment.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Development Methodologies
In this module, we'll list the topics covered in this curriculum. We'll also discuss the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), development methodologies, and structured methodologies versus unified methodologies.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a structured approach to complex development projects, ensuring team collaboration and best practices
Suitable for individuals with no prior development experience, making it accessible to aspiring programmers
Covers Agile methodologies, which are widely used in industry, providing learners with relevant and practical knowledge
Introduces Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery practices, which are essential for modern development workflows
Explores the 12 Factor App methodology, which is particularly valuable for cloud-based development

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Reviews summary

Beginner-friendly development methodologies overview

According to students, this course provides a largely positive and clear introduction to core development methodologies. Learners praise its ability to distill complex topics like SDLC, Agile concepts, and CI/CD into an easy-to-understand format, making it ideal for absolute beginners or those new to the field. While many appreciate its concise overview, some find the course's depth, particularly concerning 12 Factor Apps and practical applications, to be somewhat superficial, suggesting it may require additional resources for advanced understanding.
Ideal for new learners and professionals shifting roles.
"As someone completely new to software development, this course laid out the... concepts in an easy-to-digest manner."
"Highly recommend for absolute beginners."
"Perfect for non-developers needing to communicate with dev teams."
"I would recommend this course to anyone new to software development."
Provides an excellent foundational understanding for beginners.
"Absolutely fantastic for understanding the basics! ...laid out the SDLC, Agile, and CI/CD concepts in an easy-to-digest manner."
"Excellent course for an overview! It truly delivers on its promise of being an 'overview'. ...all explained concisely."
"This course provided a great introduction to development methodologies... overall a solid foundation for a beginner like me."
"Solid introductory course. I gained a lot of clarity on how development processes work."
Could benefit from more real-world examples and updated content.
"Some examples felt a bit generic, and I would have liked more real-world case studies to illustrate the points better."
"The CI/CD section seemed to rush through Jenkins without providing enough practical context."
"The course content is alright for a beginner, but it needs an update. Some of the tools and concepts mentioned feel a bit dated."
"I felt I needed to seek out additional resources to truly grasp these concepts."
May be too superficial for experienced or intermediate learners.
"A decent overview, but I was hoping for more depth, especially in the 12 Factor App section. It felt like a quick skim rather than a deep dive."
"For someone with some prior experience, it might be too superficial."
"I found this course somewhat lacking. While it touches on important topics, the depth is minimal."
"Just remember it's an overview, don't expect deep technical dives."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Development Methodologies Overview with these activities:
Practice coding before starting the course
Solidify coding skills and reduce potential obstacles during the course.
Show steps
  • Review basic programming concepts
  • Solve coding challenges on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode
Review Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC)
Revisit the Software Development Lifecycle to better prepare for the Agile and DevOps methodologies.
Browse courses on Software Development Lifecycle
Show steps
  • Review the SDLC phases
  • Research the advantages and disadvantages of SDLC
  • Identify real-world examples of SDLC
Form a study group for Agile methodologies
Collaborate with peers to enhance understanding and share insights on Agile methodologies.
Show steps
  • Identify interested classmates
  • Establish regular meeting times
  • Discuss Agile concepts and case studies
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Complete Agile simulations
Engage in hands-on simulations to reinforce Agile principles and practices.
Browse courses on Agile
Show steps
  • Join an online Agile simulation platform
  • Participate in multiple simulation rounds
  • Analyze the results and identify areas for improvement
Read 'Agile Project Management with Scrum'
Gain a comprehensive understanding of Scrum and its application in Agile project management.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly
  • Identify key concepts and principles
  • Consider how Scrum can enhance your development practices
Build a Continuous Integration (CI) pipeline
Gain practical experience in setting up and managing a CI pipeline to ensure code quality and efficiency.
Browse courses on Continuous Integration
Show steps
  • Configure the CI pipeline
  • Choose a CI tool
  • Integrate the pipeline with your development environment
  • Monitor and maintain the pipeline
Explore 12-Factor Apps in Kubernetes
Enhance your understanding of 12-Factor Apps and their application in Kubernetes for cloud-native development.
Show steps
  • Identify a tutorial on 12-Factor Apps in Kubernetes
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step
  • Deploy a sample 12-Factor App to Kubernetes
Develop a personal portfolio website
Apply the methodologies and concepts learned in the course to build a tangible project.
Show steps
  • Plan and design the website
  • Implement the frontend and backend using concepts covered in the course
  • Deploy and host the website
  • Evaluate and iterate on the website based on feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Development Methodologies Overview will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Software Developer
Software Developers write the code that makes software programs function. They may also design software or conduct research to improve software performance. This course introduces Software Development Life Cycles (SDLCs), Agile methodologies, Continuous Integration CI/CD), and 12-Factor Apps. These are all important concepts for Software Developers of all kinds. Taking this course may help you get certified as a Software Developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers research, design, build, test, and maintain software systems. They work with a wide range of technologies, including programming languages, operating systems, databases, and networks. This course may help Software Engineers understand the different methodologies and tools that are available to them. This can help them build and maintain software systems more efficiently and effectively. The course has a particular focus on Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites and web applications. They use a variety of programming languages and technologies to create websites that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This course introduces 12-Factor Apps. This is a methodology for building cloud-native applications that are scalable, reliable, and maintainable. Taking this course may help individuals become more effective Web Developers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers work to bridge the gap between software development and IT operations. They use automation and other tools to improve the efficiency and reliability of software delivery. This course introduces Continuous Integration (CI) and Continuous Delivery (CD). These are important concepts for DevOps Engineers, as they help to automate the software delivery process and improve software quality. The course also provides an overview of the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), which is essential for understanding the overall process of software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers design, build, and maintain cloud-based systems. They work with a variety of cloud computing technologies, including cloud platforms, databases, and networks. This course introduces 12-Factor Apps. This is a methodology for building cloud-native applications that are scalable, reliable, and maintainable. Taking this course may help individuals become more effective Cloud Engineers.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve business problems. They use a variety of statistical and machine learning techniques to build models that can predict future outcomes. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Data Scientists, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and marketing teams. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Product Managers, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including project teams, clients, and sponsors. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Project Managers, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts work with businesses to identify and solve problems. They use a variety of techniques, including data analysis, process mapping, and systems design. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Systems Analysts, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create documentation for software and other technical products. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and end users. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Technical Writers, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Quality Assurance Analyst
Quality Assurance Analysts test software to identify and fix defects. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and end users. This course introduces the Software DevelopmentLifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Quality Assurance Analysts, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst
Software Architect
Software Architects design and build software systems. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, designers, and end users. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), Agile methodologies, and 12-Factor Apps. These are all important concepts for Software Architects. Taking this course may help you get certified as a Software Architect.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including database users, engineers, and designers. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Database Administrators, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including network users, engineers, and designers. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Network Administrators, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including system users, engineers, and designers. This course introduces the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC). This is important for Systems Administrators, as it helps them understand the overall process of software development. The course also provides an overview of Agile methodologies, which are increasingly important in software development.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Development Methodologies Overview.
Cover image
The Robert C. Martin Clean Code Collection...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Agile software development principles, patterns, and practices. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Agile and how to apply it to their own projects.
The Robert C. Martin Clean Code Collection...
Paperback
Check
The Robert C. Martin Clean Code Collection...
Kindle Edition
Check
Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Save
Introduces the Lean Startup methodology, which process for developing and validating new products and services. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about how to start and grow a successful business.
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Hardcover
$$
The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Pragmatic Programmer
Save
Provides a practical guide to software development, covering topics such as design, coding, testing, and debugging. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their software development skills.
The Pragmatic Programmer: Your Journey To Mastery,...
Hardcover
$$
Pragmatic Programmer, The: From Journeyman to Master
Kindle Edition
$$
(Italiano) Pragmatic Programmer - Edizione del 20°...
Kindle Edition
$$
(Italiano) Il Pragmatic Programmer: Guida per manovali del...
Kindle Edition
$$
(中文) The Pragmatic Programmer: access to the highest...
Paperback
$$
Pragmatic programmer (Korean Edition)
Paperback
$$$
CLEAN CODE
Save
Provides a practical guide to writing clean and maintainable code. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve the quality of their software.
CLEAN CODE
Paperback
Check
CLEAN CODE
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Software in 30 Days
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Agile project management with Scrum, a popular Agile framework. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Scrum and how to use it to manage their projects.
Software in 30 Days: How Agile Managers Beat the...
Paperback
$$
(中文) 30天软件开发：告别瀑布拥抱敏捷 (图灵程序设计丛书 84) (Chinese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Test Driven Development
Save
Provides a practical guide to test-driven development (TDD), a technique for writing software that is both reliable and maintainable. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about TDD and how to apply it to their own projects.
Test Driven Development: By Example
Paperback
$$
Test-driven development (Korean Edition)
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Domain-Driven Design Reference
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of domain-driven design (DDD), a software design technique that focuses on the business domain. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about DDD and how to apply it to their own projects.
Domain-Driven Design Reference: Definitions and...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Head First Design Patterns
Save
Provides a practical guide to design patterns, a set of reusable solutions to common software design problems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about design patterns and how to apply them to their own projects.
Head First Design Patterns: Building Extensible and...
Paperback
$$
Head First Design Patterns: A Brain-Friendly Guide
Paperback
$$$
Head First Design Patterns: Building Extensible and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Design Patterns
Save
Classic work on design patterns, a set of reusable solutions to common software design problems. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about design patterns and how to apply them to their own projects.
Design Patterns
Paperback
Check
Design Patterns
Kindle Edition
Check
The Mythical Man-month
Save
Classic work on software engineering, covering topics such as project management, software design, and software testing. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about software engineering and how to build successful software projects.
Mythical Man-Month, The: Essays on Software...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Software Engineering
Save
Comprehensive textbook on software engineering, covering topics such as software development, software testing, and software maintenance. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about software engineering and how to build successful software projects.
Loose Leaf for Software Engineering: A...
Paperback
$$$
Connect Access Card for Software Engineering: A...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Software Engineering: A Practitioner's Approach...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Art of Software Testing
Save
Comprehensive textbook on software testing, covering topics such as test planning, test design, and test execution. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about software testing and how to improve the quality of their software.
(中文) Software Engineering Series: the art of software...
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Effort
3 weeks of study, 3-5 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
LearnQuest
Instructors
Evan Bergman
Noel J. Bergman
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Introduction to Application Development. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Development Methodologies Overview (viewing)
  2. Essential Tools For Application Development
  3. Application Programming Fundamentals
  4. Object-Oriented Programming Concepts
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a structured approach to complex development projects, ensuring team collaboration and best practices
Suitable for individuals with no prior development experience, making it accessible to aspiring programmers
Covers Agile methodologies, which are widely used in industry, providing learners with relevant and practical knowledge
Introduces Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery practices, which are essential for modern development workflows
Explores the 12 Factor App methodology, which is particularly valuable for cloud-based development
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