Waterfall vs Agile Methodology

Waterfall Methodology

Waterfall project methodology is also known as the traditional method for team research in which a liner model is followed and the team only moves to the next step if the first task has been completed successfully. In simple words we can call waterfall process as one in which project is completed as a single entity divided into phases.

Agile Methodology

Agile project methodology is project management procedure in which the demands and solutions are managed through collaboration between team and customers and the testing activities are carried out concurrently. In simple words, agile method can be considered as one in which project development can be taken as a collection of many small sections.

Differences between Agile and Waterfall

• The project development cycle is divided into different phases in waterfall, while the project development life-cycle is time-boxed into sprints.
• The design process in waterfall methodology is sequential whereas the design process in agile methodology is incremental.
• The waterfall method is rigid where you only move to next stage once you complete the preceding one and no changes are made once something is decided, but agile method is known for its flexible approach where discussion are held with clients frequently to make changes at any time.
• In waterfall the testing phase only comes once the project or software is built properly and the testing plan is not discussed during the construction. On the other hand, agile development has testing requirements during the software development phase so that it can evolve.
• The project requirements are finalised by a business analyst before it begins for the waterfall method, while product owner prepares the requirements in consultation with the team throughout the duration of project.
• The main focus in waterfall is to ensure that the project and all its requirements are completed properly. However, in agile has a mindset in which the focus is on satisfying the needs of its end customer and change per the demands in the market.
• Team coordination and synchronisation isn’t frequent because each department focuses on their task. On the flipside, a small but dedicated team is required because it has high level of coordination among team members.

Which option is best for your project?

Both the methodologies are quite different from each other but have their own advantages and disadvantages. Waterfall model is easy to manage and works better for smaller projects and faster delivery. Agile model is suitable for large sized projects and focused on the client to make sure they are happy, which requires a dedicated team and experienced individuals to take decisions.