Which of the following is the first phase of the Systems Development Life Cycle?

The first phase of the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is planning. This phase is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire development process. In the planning phase, project goals are defined, project scope is outlined, and feasibility is assessed. Stakeholders identify what they want from the system, and the necessary resources, timelines, and budgets are established. This ensures that all subsequent phases—analysis, design, and testing—are conducted with a clear direction and purpose. By taking the time to thoroughly plan, organizations can better manage risks and set realistic expectations for the project, ultimately leading to a higher chance of success.