What are the phases of the systems development life cycle (SDLC)?

The correct answer is recognized as the accepted framework for the systems development life cycle (SDLC), which consists of five core phases: planning, analysis, design, implementation, and maintenance. Understanding each phase is crucial for managing any information system project's lifecycle effectively.

In the planning phase, the project's goals and scope are defined, and resources are allocated. This sets the foundation for the subsequent phases. During the analysis phase, requirements are gathered and analyzed to ensure the system will meet user needs. The design phase then translates those requirements into a blueprint for the system. After design, the implementation phase involves the actual creation and deployment of the system, followed by the maintenance phase, where ongoing support and updates ensure the system continues to function as intended.

Other choices do not accurately reflect the recognized stages of SDLC. For instance, while some elements might be present in other approaches or models, they either lack certain phases or do not follow the logical progression that characterizes the SDLC. For those studying information systems, grasping this specific five-phase structure is essential for understanding how to manage and develop systems efficiently.