Program lifecycle phase

Program lifecycle phases are the stages a computer program undergoes, from initial creation to deployment and execution. The phases are edit time, compile time, distribution time, installation time, link time, load time, and run time.

Lifecycle phases do not necessarily happen in a linear order, and they can be intertwined in various ways. For example, when modifying a program, a software developer may need to repeatedly edit, compile, install, and execute it on his own computer to ensure sufficient quality before it can be distributed to users; copies of the modified program are then downloaded, installed, and executed by users on their computers.

Edit time (or Design time) is when the source code of the program is being edited. This spans initial creation to any bug fix, refactoring, or addition of new features. Editing is typically performed by a person, but automated design tools and metaprogramming systems may also be used.

Compile time is when source code is translated into machine code by a compiler. Part of this involves language checking, such as ensuring proper use of the type system. The result of successful compilation is an executable.

Distribution time is process of transferring a copy of a program to a user. The distribution format is typically an executable, but may also be source code, especially for a program written in an interpreted language. The means of distribution can be physical media such as a USB flash drive or a remote download via the Internet.

Installation time gets the distributed program ready for execution on the user's computer, which often includes storing the executable for future loading by the operating system (OS).

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