23 June 2023

Agile Vs Waterfall Model | Difference | Comparison

Agile and waterfall models are two different approaches to software development, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Agile is a project management approach that emphasizes ongoing development and testing throughout the lifespan of software development. A waterfall is a traditional approach that follows a strict set of steps that must be completed before moving on to the next. Let us discuss some more difference between Agile Vs Waterfall Model with the help of the comparison given below.

What is Agile Methodology?

Agile project management is an iterative process for finishing a project that emphasizes regular releases that consider customer feedback. The ability to adapt during each iteration fosters acceleration and flexibility. This method differs from a linear, waterfall project management strategy, which adheres to a predetermined course with little room for modification.

What is the Waterfall Model?

The first process model to be created and used was the waterfall methodology. A simple life cycle model is another term for this type of model. It is incredibly simple to use and comprehend. There is no cross-over between stages in a waterfall methodology, instead, each phase of work must be finished before going on to the next.

Agile Vs Waterfall model | Difference between Agile and waterfall model

Definition

The agile model follows the incremental approach where each incremental part is developed through iteration after every timebox, 

The waterfall model follows a sequential design process.

Progress

In the agile model, the measurement of progress is in terms of developed and delivered functionalities, In the waterfall model general measurement of success is in terms of completed and reviewed artifacts.

Focus

The agile model strictly focuses on making an easy approach to team interaction and customer satisfaction. The sequence of steps is the main focus of the waterfall model. It consists of two key components procedures and products.

Nature

The waterfall paradigm is stiff because it forbids changing requirements once the development process has begun, but the agile approach is flexible since it allows requirements changes even after the development process has begun.

Customer interaction

High levels of client involvement are present in the Agile approach. It's because the waterfall model has very little customer contact because an incremental version is released to the customers after each iteration. It's because a waterfall model delivers the finished product to the client after the total development.

Team size

The agile model has a small team size. The smaller the team the fewer people work on it so that they can move faster. In the waterfall model, the team may consist of more members.

Projects

In an agile process, the project is well suited for a project where requirements are expected to change and evolve. Where the waterfall model is best suited for projects that have well-defined requirements and changes are not expected.

Suitability

Small projects are not a good fit for the agile paradigm. Agile project development is more expensive than other models when it comes to costs. The waterfall model works well in smaller-size projects where requirements are easily understandable. But waterfall model is not suitable for developing a large project.

Test plan

The test plan is reviewed after each sprint, and a Test plan is reviewed after complete development.

Rigidity

Agile methodology is a flexible way of building software. Waterfall methodology is a rigid structured way of software development. 

Testing

The testing team can take part in the requirements change phase without problems. The waterfall is difficult for the testing team to initiate change in needs.

Customer satisfaction

Due to the agile approach's emphasis on customer satisfaction, customers are involved at every stage of the development process. The waterfall model is more of an internal process, hence not requiring the participation of customers.

Collaboration

The agile model is a highly collaborative method of developing software that produces better results. The waterfall model prevents team collaboration because it is the least flexible and follows a set of steps.

Thanks for reading the article. Still, if you have any questions or queries in your mind on the difference between AGILE  and Waterfall Model then please ask us in the comment section below.

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