Waterfall Methodology

Waterfall: Clear Phases, Clean Execution.

The Waterfall methodology is an old-fashioned linear software development system. A project, in this model, is divided into different phases that once they are accomplished, we follow the next phase in a definite order. One stage has to be completed completely before another stage commences.

Waterfall model is step wise. After advancing in the process, you can hardly revert to go back and review the previous stages. It is called Waterfall as the progress moves in a single direction; it is just as a waterfall is flowing down in direction.

Waterfall can be applied to projects that require well defined requirements, set in stone schedules or loads of documentation. It is still equally common in industries such as construction, manufacturing and government where planning and control are important.

How the Waterfall Method is Used/Modified at Core.

The waterfall model is most suitable in an environment, where the project scope is known and does not change throughout its execution. This is what a standard Waterfall process can be:

1. Requirements

Obtain any functional and technical requirements in advance. It consists of specific documentation regarding what the software is supposed to perform, how it is intended to operate as well as any limit.

2. Design

Create the system architecture and technical designs based on the requirements. This may include database schemas, system components, interfaces, and workflows.

3. Implementation

Developers begin writing the actual code. Since the requirements and designs are already set, the focus is on building the system as planned.

4. Testing

Once development is complete, the application moves into a testing phase. QA teams check for bugs, verify that requirements are met, and ensure the system behaves as expected.

5. Deployment

After passing all tests, the system is deployed into production or delivered to the customer.

6. Maintenance

Post-deployment, the system may require bug fixes, minor updates, or user support. However, significant changes often require starting a new project cycle.

Key Features of the Waterfall Model

  • Sequential structure with clearly defined phases

  • Heavy documentation at every stage

  • Minimal client involvement once development starts

  • Strict approval gates between each phase

Progress is predictable and easy to track

Pros and Cons of Waterfall Methodology

Pros

  • Simple and easy to manage, especially for small or well-scoped projects

  • Well-defined process makes it easier to estimate timelines and budgets

  • Clear documentation ensures that everyone understands the requirements and expectations

  • Better suited for regulatory or compliance-heavy environments

  • Strong project tracking due to the structured phase-by-phase approach

 

Cons

  • Difficult to adapt if requirements change during the project

  • Little flexibility once a phase is completed

  • Late feedback since users don’t see the product until near the end

  • Risk of misalignment if early requirements are misunderstood or incomplete
  • Not ideal for complex or fast-changing projects like many modern software applications

Final Thoughts

The Waterfall Method is a reliable and disciplined approach to Project Management and software development. It works best when the scope is fixed, the goals are clear, and the path to the final product is well understood from the beginning.

While many teams today use Agile or Hybrid models for greater flexibility, Waterfall still has its place. For projects where predictability, structure, and control are more important than adaptability, the Waterfall methodology provides a solid and proven framework.

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