Planning upfront, with no surprises, and finishing one thing before moving forward sounds reassuring. That certainty is what most businesses demand of their projects.
But here’s the rub – life isn’t always as predictable as we’d like it to be.
Change is inevitable: needs evolve, markets shift, and new information can emerge that alters your project's landscape.
Which is where the Waterfall model can turn from being supportive to being out-right restrictive. It’s built for a world where the future is clear and change is minimal. Adapting to change is difficult, and expensive.
Structure over speed
The Waterfall model’s strict sequential approach also means that testing, quality assurance and market validation only occur towards the end of the project, when it’s too late to change tack if something is ‘off’. One of Waterfall’s strengths, it’s focus on knowing and documenting everything upfront, is also its weakness. You have to invest a lot of time and effort into that documentation, effort that distracts the project from delivering its end product.
Short predictable projects work well under Agile
Now, you may be thinking, “What if my project is straightforward, predictable, and I know exactly what needs to be done?” Well, in that case, the Waterfall model could be a pretty good fit. If you have small, repeatable projects with limited or predictable change, then Waterfall is great.
Heavy on governance, control and documentation
The Waterfall model provides a clear structure, making it easy to understand and manage while things go to plan. It allows for detailed documentation at every stage, which can be great for historical reference and accountability.
Reassuringly expensive
The Waterfall model, with its structure and predictability, can provide a reassuring framework for managing projects. It’s particularly effective for projects where the requirements are well-known and change is minimal. But, like the lager in the old advert (I’m showing my age here!), that reassurance comes at a price: Waterfall projects tend to take longer and cost more.
Structure or straitjacket?
Waterfall’s structure can become a millstone around your neck when faced with unexpected changes or new information, often leading to increased costs or delays. So, while it might offer the allure certainty, that comes at the cost of being able to adapt to change and requires patience, as the fruits of the project are delivered only at the end.
Next steps - check whether your project is a good fit for Waterfall
Still not sure whether Waterfall is or isn’t the right fit for your project? These nine questions will help you decide.