Agile Methodology Vs. Waterfall Methodology

When it comes to administering a project, the most common goal of every organization is to accomplish it within the deadline with zero possible errors. And in that case, both agile and waterfall methodology is in the game! However, being a product owner, it’s indeed your responsibility to opt for the best-fit choice. Because each product has individual prerequisites and each methodology comes with its own perk. So, making a choice between agile and water methodology entirely relies on the type of project. But still, to help you make a decision, here we will be comparing both, explaining their benefits, features, and approaches.

What is the chief difference between agile and waterfall methodology?

Both waterfall and agile are two popular management methodologies in the software development industry. But there is a fine line that distinguishes the two, i.e., their approach and functionality. In simple terms, waterfall methodology is a linear process where a team needs to execute each step in a project before proceeding to the next phase. On the other hand, the agile methodology involves working synchronously on different aspects of a project. 

Now let’s learn about each management methodology in detail

Agile Methodology

Agile Methodology is extremely flexible and requires team initiative to accomplish a project. Well, there is no denying that a software development program can take years to complete. And what if the technology changes in between? To adapt to changes and modifications in technologies even late in the development program, the agile methodology was first introduced. The best part of this development methodology tends to complete a project with a short deadline.

However, the only downfall it can experience is: that the team might need to put more effort in the later stages if changes need to be made for the former phases. 

Waterfall methodology

The waterfall methodology is particularly suitable for projects where the final outcome is lucidly established right from the beginning. To be more precise, waterfall methodology is applied when the objectives of each step in a particular project are clear. So, the team needs to work on each aspect at a single time. Due to this reason, the project can take more time to finish. Also, it can create a hindrance when the stakeholders figure out any error in the later phases of the development program.

The comparison between the two – 

Both the development methodology comes with their individual perks and drawbacks. And basically, the project type determines which will be the safest bet to work with. So comparing waterfall with agile will be futile in general. Still, we have juxtaposed the two for easy decision-making depending on the projects.

• Flexibility

Speaking of flexibility, agile is more flexible and can welcome certain changes during ongoing development. Waterfall, on the other hand, has a fixed timetable where the entire development program is mapped out beforehand.

• Client involvement

Agile needs the client’s involvement in each stage of the project development. Whereas, once the goal of a project is established, the waterfall does not ask the clients to take part in the project. Though it has its own disadvantages but it is primarily useful for clients with busy schedules and where the project details do not client’s intervention in between

• Budget

In terms of budget, the waterfall methodology works within a pre-fixed pricing quote. However, agile methodology encourages multiple experiments and modifications which can massively alter the pre-planned budget but is beneficial as it gives insight to the clients as and when the project proceeds.

Final Words

If you’re confused between agile and waterfall methodology, it’s always better to consult experts who will understand your project requirement and give you the right suggestion. As for GoodWorkLabs, we follow the agile methodology of managing projects as it keeps both the client and developers on the same page. To more about our ways of working, reach out to our expert team here.