Waterfall vs Agile vs Scrum: Understanding the Best Project Management Methodology

The Waterfall Model 

The Waterfall model is one of the oldest project management methodologies and follows a linear, sequential approach. Each phase of the project is completed before moving on to the next. Waterfall works best in scenarios where the project requirements are well-defined from the outset, and there is little to no scope for changes during the process. 

Key Features of Waterfall: 

• Linear & Sequential: The project progresses from one phase to another in a fixed order, often starting with requirements gathering, followed by design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance. 
• Rigid Structure: Once a phase is completed, it is difficult to return it for revisions. This means that changes during the later stages are costly and time-consuming. 
• Well-Defined Requirements: Waterfall is ideal when you have clear, unchanging requirements. 

Example: 

Waterfall is suitable for projects like building a bridge, where the scope and requirements are well-defined upfront, and changes are minimal. Another example could be creating a standard website for a business with fixed features, such as a corporate informational site. 

Agile Methodology 

Agile methodology focuses on iterative development and flexibility. Unlike Waterfall, Agile doesn’t follow a linear process. Instead, work is divided into smaller chunks known as iterations, which allow teams to develop the product gradually with frequent feedback from stakeholders. This approach is highly adaptable, making it suitable for projects where the scope may change, or when customer feedback is essential during development. 

Key Features of Agile: 

• Iterative & Incremental: The project is broken down into smaller iterations (typically 1-4 weeks) where a small part of the product is built and delivered at the end of each iteration. 
• Customer Collaboration: Agile emphasizes continuous collaboration with stakeholders and customers, making it easier to make changes or improvements based on feedback. 
• Flexible & Adaptable: Agile allows for flexibility in terms of design and scope as it evolves throughout the project lifecycle. 

Example: 

Agile is ideal for projects like mobile app development, where user feedback and new requirements frequently change the course of development. For instance, building a social media app may involve frequent updates and features based on ongoing user feedback. 

Scrum Framework 

Scrum is a framework under the Agile umbrella but provides more structure. It introduces defined roles, specific events, and certain artifacts that give teams a focused direction. Scrum divides the project into time-boxed iterations known as sprints, which typically last 2-4 weeks. Scrum is used for projects requiring continuous delivery and is effective in handling complex tasks with evolving requirements. 

Key Features of Scrum: 

• Roles: The three main roles in Scrum are the Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Development Team. 
• Sprints: Scrum divides the project into sprints, with a fixed time frame (usually 2-4 weeks), where a specific set of tasks is completed. 
• Daily Standups: Teams hold daily meetings to discuss progress, blockers, and next steps, ensuring constant communication and alignment. 

Example: 

Scrum works well for teams developing a cloud-based platform with multiple features that need regular updates. A good example is an eCommerce platform where new features like payment gateways, user interfaces, and product management tools are frequently added in sprints. 

Waterfall vs Agile vs Scrum 

Below is a comparison of the three methodologies based on key criteria: