How to Choose Appropriately Between Agile and Waterfall Development
As many companies promote digital transformation (DX), the importance of Agile development is once again in the spotlight. However, there are many cases where the term “Agile” is emphasized while actual implementation lags behind. Misunderstanding Agile as a universal solution and declaring that all projects will proceed with Agile, while neglecting appropriate planning and sharing of goals, can negatively impact project progress.
Many of the stalled projects we are asked to assist with show confusion caused by incorrect implementation approaches.
There are several important points for successful Agile development:
- Clarification and sharing of purpose: It is essential to clearly define and share the purpose of introducing Agile with all stakeholders.
- Outline planning: While not deciding every detail, it is important to establish a framework plan.
- Discretion and responsibility for the team: The development team needs to be given a certain amount of discretion and responsibility.
- Frequent communication: Frequent communication is required for information sharing and early detection and resolution of problems.
- Regular reflection and improvement: Regular reflection and process improvement are essential.
Characteristics of Projects Suitable for Waterfall Development
On the other hand, there are projects where the Waterfall development methodology is appropriate.
- When requirements are clear and changes are minimal
- Development of large-scale and critical systems such as control systems
- Projects requiring fixed-price contracts or compliance with legal regulations and standard processes
- When team members change frequently
Problems When Applying Agile to Projects Suited for Waterfall
Forcing Agile on projects that are better suited for Waterfall can lead to various problems:
- Increased uncertainty in planning
- Decline in quality
- Cost and schedule overruns
- Compliance issues
- Team confusion
Considerations for Method Selection
Both Agile and Waterfall have their strengths and weaknesses. The important thing is to flexibly select and operate the appropriate method according to the characteristics of the project.
- Consider partially incorporating Agile elements even when Waterfall is appropriate
- Choose the optimal method after identifying the project’s purpose and constraints
Conclusion
Neither Agile nor Waterfall development is absolutely superior to the other. For project success, it is necessary to leverage the strengths of each method and operate flexibly according to the situation. Development methods are means to achieve goals, and appropriate differentiation rather than uniform application is important.
Project managers and DX promoters, please refer to these points to select the optimal development method and aim for project success.