What does the term Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) refer to?

The term Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) refers to a systematic approach for planning, creating, testing, and deploying software applications. This framework outlines the various stages involved in software development, ensuring that projects are well-structured and that all necessary steps are followed to produce high-quality software.

The SDLC typically includes phases such as requirement analysis, system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. By adhering to the SDLC, software development teams can better manage timelines, resources, and quality assurance, leading to more effective project outcomes.

In contrast, the other choices focus on specific aspects of software development but do not encapsulate the entirety of the SDLC. Documenting software code is important, but it is just one part of the overall development process. Similarly, optimizing code performance and managing software updates are crucial activities but are not comprehensive enough to define the entire Software Development Lifecycle. The SDLC serves as a holistic framework that guides all of these activities within a broader context.