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IT4nextgen > Key Concepts > Agile vs. Waterfall: Which Methodology is Right for You

Agile vs. Waterfall: Which Methodology is Right for You

Last Updated January 21, 2025 By Subhash D Leave a Comment

As globalization progresses, software development is fast becoming the only method to keep up with the dynamic technological needs of the world. During a software development project, both project-management methodologies are commonly used: Agile and Waterfall. Each way consists of their respective strengths and weaknesses that can be useful to all projects.

Depending on your organization’s needs, choosing the methodology that best suits your approach is critical. Based on a comprehensive comparison in this article, you can decide which methodology best fits your projects.

What is Agile?

Agile is a methodology that prides itself on thriving through flexibility and responsiveness to ever-changing technical requirements. It requires strong collaboration among team members to get the work done. Instead of completing all tasks simultaneously, a project is usually broken into smaller, more manageable assignments that can be done in a short sprint. Different stakeholders usually review each part completed before its subsequent launch.

What is Waterfall?

The Waterfall methodology, on the contrary, is a more structured and organized approach to software development. Linear and progressive, each phase is carefully designed before its launch. From planning to execution, testing, and maintenance, each phase works consecutively, one at a time. Due to its rigid structure, adding changes to the design or existing technical requirements is usually challenging once a phase is done.

Which methodology fits me?

Due to the two different methodologies available, making a choice can be difficult. To know which methodology works best for you, consider these factors:

Project Scope and Technical Requirements

Selecting the right methodology largely depends on the scope of your project. For assignments that are much smaller in scope with lesser features, Agile is usually a better choice. On the other hand, large-scale projects with an established end goal and a list of technical requirements for several features are most suited for Waterfall methodology.

Team Size and Skillset

Like project scope, small to medium-sized teams with cross-functional teams are more appropriate for Agile. For close-knit teams of developers, testers, and analysts who collaborate closely as a team, using Agile is an added advantage. On the other hand, teams that are more organized with multiple departments are best suited for Waterfall. As the hierarchy within is more structured, Waterfall is best to combat this as each department focuses on a particular aspect of the project to be completed.

Project Timeline

Agile is the way for flexible timelines because it allows multiple changes within the development process. It is common for the project duration to increase as additional changes are made. However, Waterfall works differently. This methodology works best for strict deadlines where every phase is properly segregated to keep projects on track. Depending on your projects, choosing an approach that works best for your firm is essential.

In Summary

Creating the perfect product can be an arduous process. Yet, with the right methodology, it can be as simple as a walk in the park. According to TCGen’s best approach to product development, integrating both methodologies could be a tailored approach for some firms. There is no right or wrong method for getting a project complete. As your project progresses across its timelines, focus on adopting either a single methodology or the best of both worlds to get things going.

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Filed Under: Key Concepts

About Subhash D

A tech-enthusiast, Subhash is a Graduate Engineer and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. Founder of it4nextgen, he has spent more than 20 years in the IT industry.

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