What is typically the first step in the software development life cycle?

The first step in the software development life cycle is requirements analysis. This phase is crucial because it involves gathering and defining what the stakeholders need from the software. During this time, developers and project managers interact with clients or users to identify their needs, document these requirements, and clarify expectations for the project.

A thorough requirements analysis allows the team to understand the system's intended functions, performance criteria, and constraints before moving on to design, testing, or implementation. This foundational step helps ensure that subsequent phases of development are grounded in a clear understanding of user requirements, ultimately leading to a more successful outcome for the project.