In this phase, project goals, scope, and timelines are defined. It involves understanding the requirements, assessing risks, and creating a roadmap for the entire project. Planning lays the foundation for the development process.

The design phase involves creating a blueprint for the software based on the requirements gathered during the planning stage. It includes architectural design, database design, user interface design, and other technical specifications necessary for development.

This phase is focused on refining the project specifications and defining detailed requirements. It ensures that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of what needs to be developed and how it should function.

Building, or implementation, is where the actual code is written based on the design and requirements. Developers use programming languages and follow coding standards to create the software. This phase transforms the conceptual design into a working system.

The testing phase involves systematically checking the software for errors and ensuring it meets the specified requirements. Different types of testing, such as unit testing, integration testing, and user acceptance testing, are conducted to identify and rectify defects.

Deployment is the process of releasing the developed software for users. It includes activities like installation, configuration, and making the software available for end-users. Deployment ensures that the software is ready for use in the production environment.

Once the software is deployed, the maintenance phase begins. It involves addressing issues discovered after deployment, implementing updates or enhancements, and ensuring the software remains compatible with evolving technologies. Maintenance is an ongoing process to support the software throughout its lifecycle.