When it comes to software development, one of the most important decisions is to choose the development method for your project. There are two development methods that are popular these days; Agile and Waterfall.
When you know the difference between these two processes, it will be easier to decide which one is better for your project.
What is the Waterfall Methodology?
The waterfall is a linear model of software development lifecycle as each phase is done only once in a linear manner. It is also commonly labeled as a waterfall approach because the activities can be implemented only in a sequential manner. These phases typically include:
- Requirement Gathering
Detailed documentation of project requirements.
- Design
Creating the architecture and design of the project.
- Implementation
Writing the code based on the design.
- Testing
Verifying the software against the requirements.
- Deployment
Releasing the software to users.
- Maintenance
Ongoing support and updates.
The Waterfall model consists of a linear sequence of phases where one phase depends on the successful completion of the previous phase. This means that in case of finding problems during the testing process, making changes to the design or implementation cycle is easy but costly.
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What is Agile Methodology?
Then, there is a model called Agile, which is more continuous and moving forward, based on a sequence of cycles. The development team communicates with other stakeholders because of Agile, and the project is divided into several phases.
Agile is a type of project approach that provides the flexibility of a project management team as they tackle the project. The key features of Agile include:
- Iterations
The project is broken down into smaller segments called sprints which can range from 2 weeks to 4 weeks.
- Collaboration
Ongoing discussions between the team and stakeholders about business objectives to maintain the relevance of the project.
- Flexibility
Agile permits alterations and modifications right from the early development phase until the last phase.
- Testing and Feedback
Testing is done in each iteration, allowing for early detection of issues and continuous improvement.
Agile is often favored for projects where requirements are expected to change or are not well-defined from the start. This flexibility can result in a more positive result for the project when it is implemented in a situation where it is either fast-moving or constantly experiencing changes.
Key Differences Between Agile and Waterfall
- Project Scope and Flexibility
Waterfall
Best for projects with a clear, unchanging scope. Once the requirements are set, they rarely change, making it difficult to adapt to new information or changes in the market.
Agile
Most suitable for projects that are likely to undergo changes in the course of their implementation. Agile also permits the application of slight changes in plans and goals as the project progresses.
- Process and Planning
Waterfall
Stresses the importance of clear planning at the beginning of the project and the fact that each phase has a clearly defined order. This can lead to time wastage in case there is a need to go back to previous phases due to some hitches.
Agile
It incorporates the process of designing and planning in an incremental and progressive manner. This means that there is always an opportunity to make alterations, which helps to minimize major drawbacks.
- Team Structure and Collaboration
Waterfall
Teams work independently on their assigned phases, with limited collaboration until integration and testing.
Agile
Creates cross-functional work of the project members and their meetings and feedback during the project.
- Timeline and Delivery
Waterfall
Typically follows a linear timeline, with delivery occurring after all phases are completed. This can delay the time to market, as the entire project must be finished before deployment.
Agile
Delivers working software at the end of each iteration, allowing for earlier releases and quicker time to market.
Making the Final Decision
Therefore, the choice between Agile and Waterfall cannot be how one process is better than the other, but which process will be more appropriate to use in the project. Thus, you can make a rational decision by comprehending the advantages and disadvantages of both, based on your project’s requirements and realism.
Conclusion
While both the Agile and Waterfall methodologies are used in software development, there is no one-size-fits-all solution that works for every project. CodingCops as a software development company has found success using both methodologies, depending on the specific needs of our clients.
