Choosing the right development methodology can make or break your project. Here's how to decide.
Waterfall: The Traditional Approach
Waterfall follows a linear, sequential process where each phase must be completed before the next begins.
Best For:
- Projects with fixed, well-defined requirements
- Regulated industries (healthcare, finance)
- Hardware-dependent projects
- Projects with clear deliverables and timelines
Drawbacks:
- Difficult to accommodate changes
- Testing happens late in the process
- Client sees final product only at the end
Agile: The Iterative Approach
Agile breaks projects into small iterations (sprints) with continuous feedback and adaptation.
Best For:
- Projects with evolving requirements
- Startups and MVPs
- Complex software development
- Projects needing frequent user feedback
Drawbacks:
- Requires active client involvement
- Scope can creep without discipline
- Less predictable timelines
Making the Choice
Consider: How likely are requirements to change? How involved can stakeholders be? What's your risk tolerance?
Need help choosing the right approach? Talk to PYCO IT.