Start with WHY
To deliver and manage better digital solutions - faster, safer, and with purpose.
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.
- 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- Be courageous: We challenge outdated practices and simplify where complexity holds us back.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.
https://www.forgov.qld.gov.au/
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.
- 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.”
Guiding principles
- Solutions must be valuable and usable: We listen to real users and measure success through adoption, not just delivery.
- Speed is nothing without safety: We release small and often, backed by automation, QA, and safe-to-fail practices.
- Change is expected: Systems must be built for adaptability - technically, culturally, and procedurally.
- Quality is everyone’s job: Testing, review, and validation are embedded everyday activities, not infrequent and gated.
- Collaboration beats handover: Designers, developers, testers, stakeholders and users work together throughout. It’s a team sport, not a relay.
- Simplicity supports flow: Complexity breeds confusion, delay and waste. We reduce unnecessary gates, zones, and clutter. Just enough, just in time.