Rapid System Development (RSD) Methodologies: Proposing a Selection Framework

to address the objectives of a rapid system development team. Some of the emerging rapid system development approaches have been based off specific experiences of development teams. As a result they have come up with methodologies that help achieve rapidity and have demonstrated project success by applying these methodologies; however, an application of a development methodology may sometimes not result in project success or in achieving the desired outcomes. This may be because of the differences in the system environment and supporting strategies that lead to project success. The process of selection and tailoring of rapid development methodologies depends significantly on the context and environment of system development. The selection process requires an understanding of how certain rapid development attributes are addressed and supported in each methodology. Our research focuses on providing a framework that could help in selecting a rapid development methodology appropriate with the strategy of the system development team and the management. This article discusses some popular rapid development methodologies and defines related development attributes. It further describes a framework for a more refined process of rapid development methodology comparison and selection. The article redefines rapid system development and provides an overview of the current rapid development methodologies. The article then proposes a framework that can be used in the selection process of an appropriate rapid development methodology. The development attributes of the framework are defined. The article also provides an overview on some of the current metrics, tools, and techniques that could be used along with these rapid development methodologies. The article concludes by identifying common patterns that exist between these rapid development methodologies. The article also identifies some areas of future work required to support further tailored application of these methodologies.