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Spiral Model — Core Representation

publish date: 2026/05/31 04:48:57.239267 UTC

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The diagram below shows a simplified view of Boehm's spiral model. Each loop in the spiral represents a phase of the software process, and each loop is divided into four sectors.

What is the key differentiating feature of the spiral model compared to other software process models?

It eliminates the need for any documentation throughout the project

It requires the complete system specification to be defined before any development begins

It explicitly recognises risk and includes risk management activities to reduce those risks

It represents the process as a strict sequence of phases with no iteration

Correct Answer

It explicitly recognises risk and includes risk management activities to reduce those risks

Explanation

The main difference between the spiral model and other software process models is its explicit recognition of risk. The spiral model assumes that changes are a result of project risks and includes explicit risk management activities to reduce these risks.

Reference

Software Engineering, Ian Sommerville, 9th edition

Quizzes you can take where this question appears

Boehm's Spiral Model