Application DevelopmentIT & Software Development

What Is Rapid Application Development (RAD)?

Toby Cox - Guest Contributor profile picture
By Toby Cox - Guest Contributor

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4 min read
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Don’t go chasing waterfalls—get used to the rapids instead. Explore the rapid application development method for faster software delivery and continuous iterations.

If you're looking for a faster method of application development, you'll want to choose something other than the Waterfall model, which requires sticking to a planned schedule and doesn't allow for continuous iterations. That means you'll end up restarting the development from the beginning every time the client suggests changes.

Consider the rapid application development model (RAD), invented by James Martin in 1991. Though it's been around for a while, the RAD approach is still popular among those looking for Agile methods of application development to keep the software development life cycle in pace with growing business and client needs.

What is rapid application development and its benefits?

The RAD approach is a form of Agile software development methodology that prioritizes rapid prototype releases and iterations. Unlike the Waterfall method, the RAD model emphasizes the use of software and user feedback over strict planning and requirements recording.

Some of the key advantages of Agile development strategies, such as RAD, include:

  • Enhanced flexibility and adaptability as developers can make adjustments quickly during the development process.

  • Quick iterations that reduce development time and speed up delivery.

  • Encouragement of code reuse, which means less manual coding, less room for errors, and shorter testing times.

  • Increased customer satisfaction due to high-level collaboration and coordination between stakeholders (developers, clients, and end users).

  • Better risk management as stakeholders can discuss and address code vulnerabilities while keeping development processes going.

  • Fewer surprises as, unlike the Waterfall method, RAD includes integrations early on in the software development process.

The 5 phases of RAD

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Step 1: Define and finalize project requirements

During this step, stakeholders sit together to define and finalize project requirements such as project goals, expectations, timelines, and budget. When you have clearly defined and scoped out each aspect of the project's requirements, you can seek management approvals.

Step 2: Begin building prototypes

As soon as you finish scoping the project, you can begin development. Designers and developers will work closely with clients to create and improve upon working prototypes until the final product is ready.

Step 3: Gather user feedback

In this step, prototypes and beta systems are converted into working models. Developers then gather user feedback to tweak and improve prototypes and create the best possible product.

Step 4: Test, test, test

This step requires you to test your software product and ensure that all of its moving parts work together correctly and as the client expects.

Continue incorporating client feedback while the code is tested and retested to ensure  a smooth, functioning final product.

Step 5: Present your system

This is the final step before the finished product goes to launch. It involves data conversion, user training, and (possibly) more testing.

Is your team RAD-ready?

Here's a checklist that will help you determine your team's RAD-readiness:

Do you need to develop a software product within a short span of time (two to three months)?

Do you have an experienced team of developers, coders, and designers who can carry out the work on your timeline?

Is your client open to adopting RAD process model? I.e., will the client be available for collaboration throughout the software development process?

Do you have the right tools and technology to implement RAD?

Next steps

Adopting a new process requires buy-in from everyone involved, including your team and your client. If you've decided the RAD approach is right for you, here's what you should do next:

  • Make sure your team has an all-hands-on-deck mindset. Talk to your team about the benefits of the new approach and listen to and address their concerns.

  • Ensure that all stakeholders are willing to adhere to the project timelines.

  • Explore application development software and tools. Invest in one that fits your business's budget and requirements to be able to effectively apply this methodology.

Want to learn about hiring a mobile app developer for your business needs? Our list of the top mobile app development companies and their features will help you narrow your search. Read more in Capterra’s mobile app developer hiring guide.


Looking for IT Asset Management software? Check out Capterra's list of the best IT Asset Management software solutions.

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About the Author

Toby Cox - Guest Contributor profile picture

Toby Cox is a guest contributor for Capterra, covering software trends and stories of small business resilience. Her research on business trends and corporate social responsibility has been featured on Clutch.co, The Manifest, and PR.co Blog. Currently, Toby is based in Boston, MA, where she is a graduate student at Harvard Divinity School. She loves nature and learning new languages.

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