PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) Practice Exam

What does the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) emphasize?

1. An Agile approach with iterative cycles

2. A non-Agile approach with long cycles and extensive planning

3. The importance of teamwork in development

4. Continuous improvement in software development

The correct answer is: A non-Agile approach with long cycles and extensive planning

The choice emphasizing a non-Agile approach with long cycles and extensive planning accurately reflects the traditional characteristics of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). In its conventional form, SDLC is often depicted as a linear, sequential process that encompasses stages such as requirement analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. This structured approach typically involves comprehensive documentation and extensive upfront planning, which are hallmarks of non-Agile methodologies. While some of the other options touch upon relevant concepts, they do not align with the foundational principles that SDLC is built upon. For instance, iterative approaches and continuous improvement are more aligned with Agile methodologies, which contrast sharply with the more rigid, phase-based structure of traditional SDLC. Similarly, while teamwork is important in all software development, the emphasis on collaboration and adaptability in Agile does not characterize the SDLC's focus. Therefore, recognizing the traditional emphasis on long cycles and detailed planning is crucial in understanding the SDLC's approach to software development processes.