Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) Practice Exam

Which software development concept describes anticipated additional future costs for rework due to an earlier decision necessary for agility?

1. Role-based access control

2. Technical debt

3. Software lifecycle

4. Runtime environment

The correct answer is: Technical debt

The correct choice highlights the concept of technical debt, which refers to the future costs and potential complications that arise from taking shortcuts or making quick decisions during the software development process. When teams prioritize rapid development and immediate solutions to meet deadlines or adapt to changing requirements, they may inadvertently create complications that will need to be addressed later. This rework often involves additional time and resources, hence the term "debt," as it represents a liability that must be repaid in the form of quality improvements or feature enhancements. Understanding technical debt is crucial for managing software projects effectively and maintaining a balance between speed and quality. It encourages teams to recognize the potential long-term impacts of quick fixes and to carefully consider the trade-offs they make during the development lifecycle. This foresight can help in planning for future maintenance and scaling of the software, which is especially important in agile environments where requirements may continue to evolve.