Rapid Application Development

Rapid Application Development

Rapid application is originally developed during the mid 1970’s by the New York telephone Co’s systems development center under the direction of Dan Gelan. The word rapid means “fast”. The term itself describes it can be delivered fast. It was developed to the need to deliver systems very fast. The Success of RAD depends on the Size, Project Scope and the Circumstances. Rapid application can be designed and developed within 60 to 90 days. Although rapid application was originally developed in 1978, it was further developed during the late 1980's by Scott Shultz and James Martin. They came up with the idea of advancing the systems in a short time frame which is called Rapid Iterative Production Prototyping (RIPP) with the help of small teams of highly qualified, motivated and experienced staff. “James Martin (who was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and is frequently called "the Guru of the Information Age") further expanded and formalized Rapid Iterative Production Prototyping and in 1991 published the book Rapid Application Development”. [1]

Many elements make RAD unique. Including prototyping, Iterative development, Time boxing, Team members, Management approach and RAD tools. Prototyping is to test theories and confirm performance before starting the production of a new product. Making progressively more functional system in a short period of time is Iterative development. Each version is reviewed with the client to generate the next version. The standard length of Iteration is between one day to three weeks. The process of putting off features to future application versions in order to complete the current version in as short time as possible is time boxing. Team effort is important while using RAD. It recommends small team that consists of experienced members that are able to perform multiple roles. In order to get the best results, energetic and involved management is also very important. RAD tools are valuable today as it was initially developed.[1],[2]

The advantages of RAD over the other applications are the greater flexibility, better user Involvement and shorter completion times. RAD is very successful when the application is standalone, has a timed schedule and performance is not critical. The disadvantages include, if it is being used for the unsuitable project objectives. If it is being used for the unsuitable project, RAD system can be less effective and there may be reduced features which won’t be effective for the particular project. [3]

Works cited:
1.http://www.blueink.biz/RapidApplicationDevelopment.aspx
2.http://www.gantthead.com/content/processes/11306.cfm
3.http://www.customapplicationdevelopment.org/rapid-application-development/what-is-rapid-application-development.html