![]() With this approach, you are more likely to see your client dissatisfied and disappointed with the end result of the project. As it takes place by following precise steps, it leaves no room for unforeseen events and modifications. ![]() The main disadvantage of the waterfall method is its lack of flexibility. It is easier to measure the progress of the project with this method since all the progress of the project is defined upstream.Īfter the requirements phase, the presence of the client is not necessary during the course of the project, which is convenient for clients with limited availability. No phase overlaps and we know precisely when the project should be delivered. It also makes it possible to precisely plan the necessary time and resources for the smooth running of the project. Since everything must be planned upstream, the cascade method allows you to have a precise idea of the budget necessary for the realization of the project. It is also ideal for projects where quality is more important than cost and time. If the objectives of your project are clearly identified, the waterfall method is perfectly suited because it is simultaneously simple, easy to set up, logical and very structured. Like all working methodologies, the waterfall approach has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore essential that nothing is forgotten during the first phase. The client is no longer involved throughout the duration of the project until the validation phase. The project team works alone, carefully following the specifications and requirements defined during the first phase. No return is possible unless a major problem was discovered during the verification phase. If there are any errors or problems, the team fixes them until the client is completely satisfied with the project.Ĭommissioning: the finished product can finally be installed and used.Ī phase does not begin until the results of the previous phase are validated. Validation: the team delivers the completed project to the client who tests it and checks whether it meets all their requirements before validating it. Implementation: the team enters the product realization phase by precisely following the customer’s specifications. Requirements: All the needs and requirements of the client are identified at the start of the project, which enables the planning the following phases without the involvement of the client until the delivery of the project.Īnalysis: the team analyzes the client’s requests in order to define precise specifications.ĭesign: this phase consists of planning all the steps necessary for the realization of the project. A phase cannot start until the previous phase is completed. ![]() The waterfall method of project management follows a succession of six phases in a precise and strict linear order. Thanks to its logical sequence and ease of implementation, the waterfall method is quickly adopted by many industries, including construction and computer software development. The term “cascade” is used for the first time in 1976 in an article by Bell and Thayer which credits Royce for the term (source: Wikipedia). Benington presented a phase model for software development for the first time. However, the first description of the waterfall model is attributed to Winston W. In the same way that water coming down a waterfall cannot rise, the project team cannot (or can hardly) go back. After each completed step, you must move on to the next. The project follows a specific direction and achieves its final objective by following each step, one after another. Every phase is focused on and devoted to a particular task and depends on the results of a previous phase. The Waterfall method, or ‘cascading’, involves managing a project by following linear and sequential phases. Here is a quick guide to help you understand the functionality of the Waterfall Method, along with its advantages and disadvantages. There is a wide variety of methods, from the newer agile approach to the older and more traditional waterfall method, you are spoiled for choice. Before you launch yourself into the management of a project, it is essential to define the method that you will follow.
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