Methods of software development — Paper 3 · A Level Information Technology (from 2017) 9626

8 A software company produces games for use on smartphones. It uses the Rapid Application Development method to develop the games. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Rapid Application Development method. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [8]

8 marks

Mark scheme: 8 Eight from: 8 Advantages: Increased quality of product «focusses on problems that are critical to end users «rather than technical problems of interest to developers More likely to complete project on time More likely to complete within budget «method focuses on incremental development so chances of failure are reduced More risk control «the key risk factors show in the early part of the process provides a flexible/adaptable process Disadvantages: Users are involved from the beginning and at all stages of the entire project« «takes more interaction throughout the entire life-cycle between users and developers «takes up the time of the experts «costs are likely to be higher RAD can be a new approach for some developers «new tools/methods will be more likely to fail the first time as the team learns the process Less control over the process as it is adaptable Poor design of prototypes «developers constantly make minor changes to individual components «ignore overall system architecture issues that produce a better overall design Not suitable for very large systems. Max 6 for all advantages or all disadvantages. 1 mark is available for a reasoned conclusion/opinion.

This question in 9626/32 May/June 2017

5 A software developer has decided to use a conventional ‘waterfall’ method of development to produce a new game application. (a) Describe the stages of the ‘waterfall’ method that should be followed. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6] (b) Discuss the benefits and drawbacks to the developer of using the ‘waterfall’ method for developing the game application. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [8]

14 marks

Mark scheme: 5(a) Six from: 6 Waterfall/traditional is a linear approach to software development Determine the software/system/game requirements ...produce a requirements document for the game application Analyse the requirements ...produce a model/overview of what is required for the game application Design the software ...produce e.g. system flowchart/DFD for the game application Create the code ...program, document and test the code ...unit test the source code/modules for the game application ...integrate the units/modules into the whole system/game Carry out whole system testing of the game application remedy any errors/bugs found ...revisit any code with improvements/alterations as a result of testing Carry out user acceptance testing (UAT) install ...remedy any issues discovered Develop support mechanisms for users of the game application Deliver/implement the finished product. 5(b) Eight from: 8 Benefits: Problems can be found and fixed early in the processes Emphasis on full documentation (requirements documents, design documents) means that individual team members can be replaced/no team member is irreplaceable/new teams can complete/carry on the work Enforces a structured approach through separate/discrete stages... ...stages easy to understand ...provides identifiable milestones Drawbacks: Requirements not fully known before working software created ...clients may change their requirements ...requirements may not cover all details ...clients may not know exactly what they want/all the details required ...leading to increased costs due to redesign/redevelopment/retesting Designers may be unaware of future difficulties of designing a new software product/feature. Max 6 marks for all benefits or all drawbacks. 1 mark is available for a reasoned conclusion.

This question in 9626/32 Oct/Nov 2017

6 A software company is developing a new ‘app’ for smartphones. The Rapid Application Development (RAD) method is used to ensure that the ‘app’ is available as soon as possible. (a) The RAD process involves several phases. The first phase is often referred to as Business Modelling. Describe the tasks that must occur in this phase of RAD. … … … … … … … … [3] (b) Describe two other phases of RAD. 1 … … … … … … … … … … [4] 2 … … … … … … … … … … [4]

11 marks

Mark scheme: 6(a) Three from: 3 Defining the project in terms of what is to be developed Gathering user requirements via focus groups/workshops Defining data flow Plan processes for managing project e.g. Risk assessment/communication between development team/quality of product Planning tasks/activities. 6(b) Two phases from, max 4 per phase: 8 Data Modelling/Requirements phase: Review/analysis of data from business model/requirements phase To create sets of data objects Define relationship between data objects Define test plans Define training strategies where required Determine implementation methodology Process Modelling/User Design phase: Conversion of data objects from previous phase into detailed data flow Define process for any changes/enhancements to data object sets Define processes for adding/deleting/modifying a data object Users interact with system analysts to develop models/early prototypes Application creation/construction phase: Development/construction of prototype by expert programmers Coding may be automated Coding of components carried out simultaneously/in parallel User evaluation of prototype ...repeatedly/iterative testing by users ...users suggest improvements/changes to prototype as it is developed update/modification of prototype Implementation/testing/cutover phase: Carrying out the test plan by testing the data flow ...testing interaction/interfaces between components Testing the complete system User training where required/writing training/help notes Rollout of ‘app’ to users DNA business modelling/requirements phase – stated in part (a).

This question in 9626/32 May/June 2018

5 A software company uses the waterfall method to create its products. (a) Describe the main phases in the waterfall method of developing software. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6] (b) The new software products have to be tested. Describe the differences between alpha and beta testing. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6] (c) During the creation and testing of the products, some developers are allowed to telework. (i) Describe what is meant by teleworking. … … … … … … [2] (ii) Describe two possible effects of teleworking on the developers. … … … … … … [2]

16 marks

Mark scheme: 5(a) Six from: 6 Creation of system and software requirements for the application Analysis to create models, schemes, and business rules Design to create the technical designs/design specifications including e.g. language Implementing the code by writing the code/units/integration of units of software Creation of technical/user documentation Testing using a test plan to discover and correct errors Deploying the software by the installation, migration, support, and maintenance of the finished product. 5(b) Six from: 6 Alpha testing is carried out by employees of the developer whereas beta testing is carried out by clients/end users/not employees Alpha testing uses a lab/test environment whereas beta testing does not require/use this/is in public Alpha testing is carried out at developers’ site whereas beta testing is carried out at tester/end user location Alpha testing does not involve reliability testing whereas beta testing does Alpha testing does not involve security testing whereas beta testing does Alpha testing involves both white and black box testing whereas beta testing usually involves only black box testing Critical issues can be fixed/addressed immediately during alpha testing whereas beta testing produces feedback on issues for use at later date/in later versions Alpha testing ensures that the product is fit/ready for moving to beta testing phase. 5(c)(i) Two from: 2 (Teleworking is) a flexible working arrangement in which an employee carries out the duties and responsibilities from an (approved) work site (e.g. home) Working at a place other than the usual place of work for that employee Use of IT/computers/internet/telephones to maintain contact with employers/colleagues/customers/central office while working from home Does not include work done while on official travel or while mobile. 5(c)(ii) Two from: 2 Productivity/performance may be reduced due to lack of supervision/encouragement/self-motivation Developers may have more flexibility managing their hours, which could increase motivation May be difficult to stop working/disconnect from work resulting in reduced personal time Increased risk of health issues due to longer working hours/working longer with no distractions May become less associated/identified with the software company/employers May incur additional expense on e.g. heating/lighting/electricity/IT equipment May have working difficulty due to distractions/family interruptions May have reduced access to IT support.

This question in 9626/32 Feb/March 2021

9 A software company uses Rapid Application Development (RAD) to create its products. (a) Describe the stages involved in the RAD process. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6] (b) Describe reasons why the company is using RAD instead of a more traditional waterfall method of software development. … … … … … … … … … … [4]

10 marks

Mark scheme: 9(a) Six from: 6 Determine user/system requirements/aims of project Create early prototype(s) that are (partly) functional very quickly Gather user feedback on early prototypes Use feedback to inform prototyping to create high quality prototype Repeat steps/iterate prototyping and user feedback stages until product/software is finished Test prototypes/software throughout development Create user/technical documentation as required Present/produce final product for rollout to users. 9(b) Four from: 4 Project is divided into smaller sub-tasks that teams of developers can work on concurrently Sub-tasks can make use of specialised teams/skilled specialists Prototypes are created quickly so user/client can see progress/working sections Development time is not wasted if the project/prototype does not work as expected Waterfall method needs to start again if project fails RAD can adapt to changes in user requirement RAD can work well when developers telework Changes/amends/corrections can be made before the final product is created Client/end user is not surprised/disappointed by unexpected end product.

This question in 9626/31 May/June 2021

9 A software company uses Rapid Application Development (RAD) to create its products. (a) Describe the stages involved in the RAD process. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6] (b) Describe reasons why the company is using RAD instead of a more traditional waterfall method of software development. … … … … … … … … … … [4]

10 marks

Mark scheme: 9(a) Six from: 6 Determine user/system requirements/aims of project Create early prototype(s) that are (partly) functional very quickly Gather user feedback on early prototypes Use feedback to inform prototyping to create high quality prototype Repeat steps/iterate prototyping and user feedback stages until product/software is finished Test prototypes/software throughout development Create user/technical documentation as required Present/produce final product for rollout to users. 9(b) Four from: 4 Project is divided into smaller sub-tasks that teams of developers can work on concurrently Sub-tasks can make use of specialised teams/skilled specialists Prototypes are created quickly so user/client can see progress/working sections Development time is not wasted if the project/prototype does not work as expected Waterfall method needs to start again if project fails RAD can adapt to changes in user requirement RAD can work well when developers telework Changes/amends/corrections can be made before the final product is created Client/end user is not surprised/disappointed by unexpected end product.

This question in 9626/33 May/June 2021

5 A software development company is using the Agile method of software development to create a new app for a client to use on mobile devices. Discuss the use of the Agile method of software development when creating a new app for the client. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [8]

8 marks

Mark scheme: 5 Eight from: 8 For: Client/customer satisfaction is the highest priority from the earliest stages to the completion of the app development Changes in client/customer requirements can be accommodated at any stage up to final handover of app Agile development produces working/deliverable software for the client in short timescale/early in the development process Developers and users (must) work together throughout development of app to ensure app meets client/customer requirements Face-to-face conversations are often used as most efficient method of fast communication of information/ideas Agile method is deemed to promote/encourage a constant pace of development (indefinitely) so there is no ‘downtime’ waiting for others Errors/mistakes are deduced/corrected quickly as there is constant testing of the app as it is being developed Regular/iterative reviews/testing allows quick correction/alteration of developing software to meet changing demands of client/customer/users leading to technical excellence/good designs Developer teams are allowed to ‘self-organise’ leading to better working practices/designs Against: Requirement for face-to-face/daily communication means that developers have to work is same building/location Design specifications/cost estimates/project plans are not (often) accurate as design changes over time Milestones are difficult to set/recognise as development progresses as developers cannot predict with certainty what they plan to do/create in next week/month/can only predict what e.g. features they will address in near future. Max 6 marks if all bullets/statements/points.

This question in 9626/31 Oct/Nov 2022

5 A software development company is using the Agile method of software development to create a new app for a client to use on mobile devices. Discuss the use of the Agile method of software development when creating a new app for the client. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [8]

8 marks

Mark scheme: 5 Eight from: 8 For: Client/customer satisfaction is the highest priority from the earliest stages to the completion of the app development Changes in client/customer requirements can be accommodated at any stage up to final handover of app Agile development produces working/deliverable software for the client in short timescale/early in the development process Developers and users (must) work together throughout development of app to ensure app meets client/customer requirements Face-to-face conversations are often used as most efficient method of fast communication of information/ideas Agile method is deemed to promote/encourage a constant pace of development (indefinitely) so there is no ‘downtime’ waiting for others Errors/mistakes are deduced/corrected quickly as there is constant testing of the app as it is being developed Regular/iterative reviews/testing allows quick correction/alteration of developing software to meet changing demands of client/customer/users leading to technical excellence/good designs Developer teams are allowed to ‘self-organise’ leading to better working practices/designs Against: Requirement for face-to-face/daily communication means that developers have to work is same building/location Design specifications/cost estimates/project plans are not (often) accurate as design changes over time Milestones are difficult to set/recognise as development progresses as developers cannot predict with certainty what they plan to do/create in next week/month/can only predict what e.g. features they will address in near future. Max 6 marks if all bullets/statements/points.

This question in 9626/33 Oct/Nov 2022

3 Describe the Agile method used to develop software. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6]

6 marks

Mark scheme: 3 Six from: 6 One for at least four correctly identified stages: • List of stages i.e. Initiation, Planning, Documentation, Development, Support/maintenance Max two valid descriptions of activity in INITIATION e.g. • Create idea/vision for project • Discuss return on investment (ROI) • Identify team members are identified • Determine time/resources that are needed • Carry out feasibility study carried out/ determine if the project can be done Max two valid descriptions of activity in PLANNING by e.g. • Developers working with client/stakeholders/end-users • Specifications are written e.g. User/system/requirement specifications • Risks are considered/estimated • Product features are determined Max two valid descriptions of activity in DEVELOPMENT e.g.: • Development based on specifications • Occurs in sprints/iterations/incremental phases • Working software available at end of this phase • Working software has minimal functionality which will be built on in each sprint • Each iteration is tested Max two valid descriptions of activity in DOCUMENTATION e.g.: • Production of user documentation • Deployment to end-users • Handover with training to end-users • Software monitored for errors/problems Max two valid descriptions of activity in SUPPORT/MAINTENANCE e.g.: • Software withdrawn/decommissioned/end-of-life • Support for software stops • End-users notified of impending withdrawal of software • Software replaced by new release/version.

This question in 9626/32 Feb/March 2024

8 A software developer has been asked to create a gaming app for a smartphone. Analyse the use of the waterfall method of software development in this scenario. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [8]

8 marks

Mark scheme: 8 Command word: Analyse: examine in detail to show meaning, identify 8 elements and the relationship between them. Max two from:  Stakeholder/client requirements are gathered at start of development  (Waterfall method) is linear/sequential/each phase follows on from/succeeds previous  Stages are analysis/requirements, design, development/implementation, testing, documentation, evaluation, maintenance Allow different names for same stages MUST HAVE AT LEAST 4 use LNK  Use of Gannt charts to plot/plan/manage development stages Max six from: For:  Most problems are detected at the initiation/analysis stages, so the time/costs of the later stages are reduced  Time is spent on planning/design at start so potential problems are resolved before the actual programming/development starts  Development is structured/controlled throughout so that deviations/alteration/amendments are minimised  ensures that the client requirements (set at start) are fully met  allows milestones to be set/used to monitor progress. Max six from: Against:  Clients may not know/fully understand their needs/requirements at the beginning/start of development project  Clients cannot see a functional prototype before/during development so may not be sure of their exact requirements  it is difficult to deviate/alter/amend them during development (because requirements are set out at the beginning/start) if the client ask for amendments/additional features during development.

This question in 9626/32 May/June 2024

5 The agile method of software development is to be used to create an app for smartphones. Justify the use of the agile method of software development. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6]

6 marks

Mark scheme: 5 Six from e.g.: 6 • The large software project is broken down into small development cycles called sprints, of e.g. two to four weeks (1) resulting in fast development of usable / working prototype (1) • Customer / client / user gets to see / use a working / minimal featured prototype (1) so can give feedback before the development is advanced / next app features are added (1) • Clear and achievable goals in sprints produce greater motivation / sense of achievement of developer / team workers (1) resulting in a better product (1) • Budgets for short-term / fixed goals / sprints are more predictable (1) resulting in greater control of finances (1) • Increased customer / client / user satisfaction (1) • due to more involvement during development (1) • Faster return-on-investment (ROI) for stakeholders (1st) – due to quicker / earlier (c.f. other methods) releases of app prototypes / iterations (1) • App can be adapted / amended / have features added / removed / improved more easily / quickly / with less work (1st) – in accordance with customer / client / user feedback (1) • App quality is improved (1st) – due to (more) frequent reviews (after each sprint) (1) • Collaboration between team workers / personnel is improved (1st) – due to short development sprints / not having to wait for major decisions to be made / focus on one aspect of app (1)

This question in 9626/33 Oct/Nov 2024

2 A new software gaming app is to be developed for smartphones. Analyse the use of the waterfall method to develop the new app. … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … [6]

6 marks

Mark scheme: 2 Command word: Analyse - examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements and the relationship between them. 6 ONE from: • (A method of software development that) consists of a series of successive stages/stages that follow on from one another • SIX from: e.g.: • consists of a series of stages that follow on from each other • stages include analysis, design, writing specifications, coding/development, testing, reviews, deployment, maintenance (1 mark for minimum of 3, 2 marks if 5 or more named) • most problems / issues detected / noted / discovered in the early stages / in analysis / design / specification stages • Problems highlighted noted before development begins • Development is ordered / controlled / structured to minimise / stop changes / alterations after design stage … • Feature creep is minimised / does not occur • Milestones can be clearly defined (1st) allows precise monitoring of progress (1) • Clients may not fully understand / now what they require at the beginning of the development • Difficult / costly to change / alter / amend / add to app specification during development

This question in 9626/31 May/June 2025