Which of the following methods would best describe the approach of a rapid application development (RAD) process?

The essence of the Rapid Application Development (RAD) process is its emphasis on speed and flexibility in developing applications. By minimizing the planning phase, RAD allows developers to quickly prototype and iteratively develop software based on user feedback. This agile approach is designed to adapt to changing requirements and reduce the time to deliver a functional product, enhancing responsiveness to user needs and market changes.

In contrast to the other approaches listed, which emphasize extensive planning or documentation before development, RAD's swift cycle promotes an iterative process where user feedback can shape the next iteration of the application. This makes RAD particularly effective in environments where requirements may evolve during the development process, allowing teams to focus on creating a working product rapidly rather than getting bogged down in exhaustive planning or long-term cycles.