Software Development Life Cycle: (SDLC) A value driven approach
A departmental approach to delivering successful digital solutions.
(updated) TL;DR Our SDLC is a value-driven framework for delivering and managing digital solutions that are fast, safe, and centred on real user needs. It balances strategy, structure, and agility - empowering teams to build meaningful, evolving products through continuous quality, collaboration, and purpose.
Start with WHY
To deliver and manage better digital solutions - faster, safer, and with purpose.
Driven by our values
At its heart, an SDLC is not just about writing code or following process. It’s about solving real problems for real people - through technology that’s responsive, inclusive, and sustainable.
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- Customers first: We build with, not just for, our users - placing their needs at the centre of every decision.
- Ideas in action: We test, learn, and adapt quickly - embracing iteration and innovation to deliver what works.
- Unleash potential: We empower teams to own their craft, grow their capabilities, and challenge the status quo.
- Be courageous: We challenge outdated practices and simplify where complexity holds us back.
- Empower people: We build systems that serve people - our colleagues, stakeholders, and the communities we support.
What is a SDLC?
Before we try to define how to implement SDLC, we should unpack what it is.
- Software – not just code, but a digital product created to solve real problems.
- Delivery – the act of placing something tangible and desirable into the hands of those who want it, when they need it.
- Life – The digital product is alive. It does not exist in a vacuum. It should evolve, adapt and respond to its environment.
- Cycle – Development is not linear but cyclic. It will move and loop through various phases during its existence.
SDLC can be described as a combination of strategy, framework and methodology.
- SDLC as a strategy: The organisational intent and purpose behind how products are delivered sustainably and successfully.
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SDLC as a framework: The structure that outlines the stages of software development from idea to retirement.
- SDLC as a methodology: The practices used to develop and deliver software solutions. Tools and processes like Agile, Waterfall, DevOps, Lean, HCD, SAFE, etc.
“The SDLC is the whole process by which a digital solution is imagined, created, delivered, and evolved - to bring ongoing value to the people who use it.”