What software development process do you prefer to use?
The Microsoft interviewer will ask this opening or general question to begin a conversation, get you talking, find out a little more about you, and collect information they can use for subsequent questions. They are also interested in learning whether the processes you use align with those of their organization. The best way to prepare for this type of question is to research Microsoft, its software development processes, and the tools it uses. You can learn this from their website, the job description, or by speaking with former and current Microsoft software development team members.
"The software development process I use the most is the same one I learned early in my career. It begins with a rediscovery process and requirement analysis, which leads to the specifications and software architecture. I then move on to development, testing, implementation, and documentation. After this is done and the software is fully developed, my attention turns to training the aim users, assisting the support team to be prepared to respond to issues, and providing ongoing maintenance, bug fixes, and upgrades. Based on my research, I believe this is the same methodology the Microsoft software development team employs."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I prefer to use the process I learned early in my career. Starting with a rediscovery and requirements analysis which can shape architecture decisions. Testing, development, and deployment can come next, followed by documentation and training of end users. After deployment, assisting with support issues, bug fixes, and ongoing maintenance. I believe this is a similar approach that Microsoft currently uses
Marcie's Feedback
Great! It sounds like you have a thorough and logical process in place for developing software. To further strengthen your answer, do you have an example you can include here of a time when you followed this process successfully?
