What does it take to get a software project setup?

Once you know what you want to build with your software project, the excitement to get those features built often overshadows some project realisms. We understand that it’s a journey to begin development. 

There are several steps that WorkingMouse clients progress through before any human-written code is developed; from aligning on a problem at Brief to validating a solution in scope. One of the realisms I am alluding to is getting the project set up correctly before the first development iteration begins. At WorkingMouse, we call this Iteration 0. 

Iteration 0 is an estimated iteration that allows the development team to complete a comprehensive handover from the scoping team and get set up for success. It’s a vital part of the software development lifecycle, as investing the time upfront mitigates risks or blockers during the project. 

Iteration 0 Checklist for 2024 

We’ve enhanced our Iteration 0 Checklist to reflect some of the current best practices in software development for 2024: 

1. Account Setup: 

• Ensure that any AI-powered development tools are configured to automate repetitive coding tasks. Leveraging AI for code generation and optimisation can save time and allow developers to focus on complex aspects. 

2. Microservices Architecture: 

• If the project involves multiple independent services, confirm the adoption of a microservices architecture. This practice enhances scalability and flexibility, allowing teams to develop and deploy services independently. 

3. DevOps and CI/CD Integration: 

• When setting up CI/CD in Iteration 0, ensure the integration includes automated testing and deployment processes. Implementing CI/CD pipelines facilitates seamless software delivery and faster release cycles. 

• Example code snippet: Incorporate automated testing scripts in Jenkins for continuous integration. 

4. Low-Code and No-Code Platforms: 

• If appropriate, consider integrating low-code or no-code platforms into the development process. These platforms empower non-technical team members to participate in software development, enabling a broader talent pool. 

5. Security as a Priority: 

• During the environment setup phase, incorporate robust security practices like secure coding standards, API allowances, and access management. Regular security audits should be built into the workflow from the start to protect the software from cyber threats. 

6. Cross-Platform Testing and Caching: 

• Include cross-platform testing to ensure the application provides a consistent user experience across various devices and operating systems. 

• Implement caching mechanisms where applicable to improve software performance and scalability by identifying frequently accessed data during setup. 

7. Emphasise Documentation: 

• Comprehensive documentation remains critical. Ensure that documentation covers architecture, API guides, user interactions, and more. In 2024, using automated tools to generate interactive API docs is highly recommended. 

8. Continuous Learning and Feedback Loops: 

• Incorporate a plan for ongoing learning and improvement in Iteration 0. Regular feedback from user interviews, app store reviews, and metrics analysis helps teams stay agile and responsive to user needs. 

9. AI Tools for Testing and Debugging: 

• Consider using AI-infused testing tools to automate the detection of potential issues and optimise debugging processes. This approach speeds up identification and resolution of bugs. 

In reviewing, it’s evident that Iteration 0 has grown in complexity to accommodate new trends and best practices in the software development landscape for 2024. These updates not only help mitigate risks but also ensure projects are set up to leverage the latest technology for more efficient and secure development.