Waterfall methodology for Project Managers
What is Waterfall Project Management?
Waterfall project management is a linear approach to managing projects, in which progress flows in one direction, like a waterfall. It is characterized by distinct phases, each with specific deliverables and objectives. The Waterfall method is best suited to projects with well-defined requirements and a clear end goal, such as constructing a building or developing software.
​
There are several key phases in the Waterfall project management process:
-
Planning: The planning phase involves defining the project scope, objectives, and deliverables, as well as creating a project plan and budget. It is important to be as detailed and thorough as possible in the planning phase, as this sets the foundation for the rest of the project.
-
Design: In the design phase, the team creates detailed designs and specifications for the project deliverables. This may include creating technical drawings, prototypes, or user interface designs.
-
Implementation: During the implementation phase, the team begins executing the project plan and producing the deliverables. This may involve sourcing materials, assembling the product, or writing code.
-
Testing: Once the deliverables have been produced, they are tested to ensure that they meet the specified requirements and function as intended. Any issues or defects discovered during testing are documented and addressed.
-
Deployment: In the deployment phase, the final product is delivered to the customer or end user. This may involve installing the product, training users, or providing support.
-
Maintenance: The maintenance phase involves providing ongoing support and making any necessary updates or improvements to the product.
​
Advantages of Waterfall project management process:
One of the main advantages of the Waterfall method is that it allows for clear, measurable progress and well-defined deliverables. It is particularly well-suited to projects with well-defined requirements and a clear end goal.
​
However, the Waterfall method can be inflexible and may not be well-suited to projects with rapidly changing requirements or a high degree of uncertainty. It is difficult to make changes to the project plan once the project has moved on to the next phase, and it can be challenging to get feedback from stakeholders until the end of the project.
​
In recent years, the Agile project management approach has gained popularity as an alternative to the Waterfall method. Agile is a flexible and adaptive approach that emphasizes continuous iteration and improvement, and is better suited to rapidly changing projects.
Overall, the Waterfall method is a linear, predictable approach to project management that is best suited to projects with well-defined requirements and a clear end goal. It allows for clear, measurable progress and well-defined deliverables, but can be inflexible and may not be well-suited to projects with rapidly changing requirements.
​
​
​
​