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Code

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The Code (or Implementation) phase is where the actual software construction takes place, with developers writing the code according to the design specifications created in the previous stage.

The Development Process​

This is typically the longest phase of the SDLC.

  • Environment Setup: Configuring , compilers, and necessary tools.
  • Coding: Writing code in the chosen programming languages.
  • Code Review: to ensure code quality, readability, and adherence to standards.
  • Documentation: Writing inline comments in the code and documentation for APIs.
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During this phase, developers should be writing tests as they code to ensure the code is working as expected - integrating the next stage - Verify as they develop the software.

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Security should also be considered during this phase, with tools such as Snyk and Veracode performing real-time security analysis as code is written, identifying vulnerabilities instantly. Ensure at least two tools are used to scan the code for vulnerabilities.

Development Key Deliverables​

  • Source Code
  • Unit Test Results
  • Technical Documentation
How AI Can Help: Coding

AI has transitioned from a simple tool to an intelligent pair programmer:

  • Predictive Coding: Several IDEs have now been developed with integrated AI that can provide context-aware code completions and can generate entire functions capabilities directly, including but not limited to Cursor, Claude Code and Antigravity. Other tools include GitHub Copilot, Amazon Q Developer, Sourcegraph, and JetBrains AI.
  • Code Review: AI can review code and provide feedback on the code, including but not limited to Cursor's Bugbot, CodeRabbit, Greptile and Graphite.
  • Security Scanning: Tools like Snyk and Veracode perform real-time security analysis as code is written, identifying vulnerabilities instantly.
  • Documentation: AI can automatically generate docstrings and comments, keeping documentation in sync with code changes. This is often done automatically in the IDEs mentioned above.