Which phase in an SDLC helps define the problem and scope of existing systems?

The phase in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) that helps define the problem and scope of existing systems is the planning phase. During this initial stage, stakeholders come together to identify the objectives of the project, understand the current systems in place, and evaluate any limitations or issues that need addressing. This phase is crucial because it sets the foundation for the entire project; by clearly defining the problem, the team can establish a scope that outlines what needs to be achieved.

The planning phase involves gathering input from various stakeholders, which includes analyzing requirements and constraints. This collaborative approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the existing environment, ensuring that any proposed solutions align with business goals.

In contrast, the design phase focuses on formulating how the solution will be built based on established requirements. The requirements phase is concerned with detailing specific features and functionalities based on user needs, rather than evaluating the current systems. Lastly, the testing phase is dedicated to verifying that the developed software meets the predefined requirements and functions correctly, which comes much later in the SDLC.