What is the primary focus of Rapid Application Development (RAD)?

The primary focus of Rapid Application Development (RAD) is on minimal planning and using rapid prototyping to develop applications quickly. This methodology emphasizes a quick and iterative development process where user feedback is integrated continuously. By prioritizing swift prototyping, the RAD approach allows developers to present working models of the system to users early and often, leading to early identification of issues and adjustments based on user input. This fosters collaboration and adaptability, making the process more efficient and effective in meeting user needs.

This approach contrasts with extensive upfront planning, which can delay the start of development and may not effectively address changing requirements. Documentation of every phase tends to slow down the process, which is against the RAD philosophy that values responsiveness over complete documentation. While RAD can be applied to large-scale applications, it is not limited to them, as it is designed to facilitate quick development for a range of projects.