What Is Waterfall Project Management Methodology?
Introduction to Waterfall project management methodology
The Waterfall methodology has long been recognized as a structured and sequential approach to project management. With its roots in traditional project management practices, Waterfall provides a systematic framework for managing projects from initiation to completion.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll cover the following topics:
- What is Waterfall project management?
- What are the 6 phases of Waterfall project management?
- What is Waterfall vs. Agile?
- Benefits of Waterfall methodology
- Downsides of Waterfall project management
- … and more!
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What is Waterfall project management?
Waterfall project management maps out a project into a sequence of clear, consecutive stages, with each new phase beginning only when the previous one has been completed. This structured methodology means revisiting or altering a phase is not advisable.
It is the most traditional method for managing a project, with team members working linearly towards a set end goal. Each participant has a clearly defined role, and none of the phases or goals are expected to change.
Waterfall project management works best for projects with long, detailed plans that require a single timeline. Changes are often discouraged (and costly). In contrast, Agile project management involves shorter project cycles, constant testing and adaptation, and overlapping work by multiple teams or contributors.
You can also watch the video below to learn more on the topic.
Video transcription
What is the Waterfall model?
Whether you’re managing a short-term project with a fixed deadline or a long-term project with continuous delivery cycles, choosing the right project management approach is vital.
When considering a more traditional approach to project management, you might turn to the Waterfall model. Named for its cascading “waterfall-like” visual appearance and straightforward process, the Waterfall model breaks projects down into linear, sequential phases where each phase must be completed before the next begins. The Waterfall model was initially conceptualized for software development, but it can be adapted to fit many industries and types of projects.
Typically, the Waterfall model has between five to seven phases, the names of which can vary slightly depending on the type of project.
The phases of Waterfall
The requirements phase is where team members plan for the project and produce the requirements document, which details everything that’s needed.
The design phase turns the requirements document into a foundation and a structure for how the project will be implemented.
In the implementation phase, the specifications from the design phase are executed.
We’ve reached the testing phase. Is everything working as it should be? This is where all the kinks and issues are ironed out.
In the deployment phase, the project deliverable has been tested and is ready to be released or presented to the client.
Finally, we’ve reached the maintenance phase. This phase is all about upkeep, patches, and making sure quality remains — even after the launch. These phases do not overlap, meaning that they cannot run concurrently.
Think of it as a relay race. The baton must be handed off by one runner before the other can begin their leg of the race. Waterfall is similar in its design. Consider each phase to be a “leg” of the race and its completion as the baton being “handed off.”
What are the best types of projects for Waterfall?
So, what are the advantages of Waterfall management, and what types of projects can benefit most from this model? Waterfall works best with projects that have clear requirements from the outset. Waterfall is a highly structured model of project management with documentation built into its phases. If the project is straightforward with clear start and end dates, a Waterfall model is a good option.
In project management, it is necessary to tailor your approach based on the project in question. After all, there is no one-size-fits-all solution that you can apply to every single project. That’s why you need the right tools at your fingertips.
With Wrike, you can view your project in a detailed and intuitive Gantt chart view that adjusts dependencies should due dates change. Wrike’s team calendars also allow visibility into deadlines, milestones, and workloads for Waterfall projects.
When planning your next Waterfall project, deliver it with Wrike. Pave the way to success with Gantt charts, team calendars, dashboards, and many other robust project planning features.
To continue learning about Agile, Waterfall, and other frameworks, be sure to check out our other videos and resources.
What are the 6 phases of Waterfall project management?
The six phases of Waterfall project management are:
- Requirements: Gather and document all project requirements.
- Design: Develop a comprehensive workflow and design for the project.
- Implementation: Execute the design and implement the project plan.
- Testing: Test the project at every stage to ensure compliance with requirements.
- Deployment: Launch the project or deliver the final product to the customer.
- Maintenance: Provide ongoing support and improvements to ensure the project remains functional and up to date.
Manage your Waterfall projects effortlessly
What is Waterfall vs. Agile?
The Waterfall model in project management structures projects into distinct phases, ideal for those with a well-defined project scope. Conversely, the Agile approach adapts to changes through iterative cycles, making it suitable for projects expecting adjustments. The debate between Agile vs. Waterfall often centers on their approaches to structure and adaptability.
Benefits of Waterfall methodology
The Waterfall methodology in project management follows a systematic, sequential process, simplifying project planning and execution. Because each phase must be completed before moving on, this ensures thorough attention to detail at each stage. Here are some other benefits:
- Waterfall methodology minimizes the risk of overlapping or incomplete tasks.
- Comprehensive documentation is created at each phase, which is beneficial for complex projects requiring precise specifications.
- Due to its linear progression, the Waterfall model is easier to manage and measure against the original project scope and timeline.
- The fixed structure allows for better predictability in budget management.
- Problems can be identified during the design phase, allowing for solutions before further development.
Downsides of Waterfall project management
- Changes are difficult to implement once a phase is completed due to the sequential nature of Waterfall management.
- The final product might not meet current needs if project requirements change midway.
- Testing only occurs after the build is complete, which can lead to major revisions if problems are discovered late.
- Making changes after project phases are complete can be costly and time-consuming.
- Team members may work in isolation during project phases, reducing collaboration and innovation.
Balancing the linear and sequential phases in Waterfall projects
By adhering to a linear and sequential path, the Waterfall project management process ensures that each segment of the project lifecycle is thoroughly planned and executed. For instance, the sequential design process in Waterfall development typically progresses from requirements gathering to system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and, finally, maintenance.
Each stage of the Waterfall methodology may be treated as a component in your design process. This approach to project management can be especially effective in industries where project complexity demands stringent adherence to processes and requirements, and where stakeholders during the process need to see planned progress.
How to use Waterfall and Agile practices in project management
Traditionally, the Waterfall methodology follows a rigid structure. However, modern adaptations might add elements of Agile practices to enhance flexibility. This is known as a hybrid approach.
For example, using Waterfall with Agile tools in the software development process can allow for minor iterations within the confines of a clearly defined phase. This combined approach of Agile and Waterfall allows teams to process and iterate on specific components without disrupting the overall project flow.
Optimizing the sequential phases of Waterfall projects involves meticulous project management, strategic use of robust tools, and, sometimes, integrating Agile methodologies where flexibility can be infused. An Agile program might be integrated to track Agile metrics, offering insights into team performance.
What is workflow management in Waterfall project management methodology?
In Waterfall project management, workflow management helps maintain the sequential progression of project phases, from inception through to completion. Workflow management within the Waterfall methodology ensures that each project phase follows a strict linear sequence without overlapping.
Effective project planning and management require a comprehensive project management tool that supports workflow management. These tools help ensure that project documentation is maintained correctly, which is important as the project progresses. Moreover, good software like Wrike helps map out the project timeline, facilitating monitoring of each phase to ensure that the project is segmented properly.
Want to learn more about workflow management? Click here to read how you can use Wrike to automate your team’s entire workflows.
Optimize Waterfall project management with Wrike
Have you decided if Waterfall is right for your team? Whatever project management methodology you choose, you need reliable software to implement it. Enter Wrike.
From Gantt charts with task dependencies to workload charts, Wrike empowers teams to seamlessly navigate the sequential nature of Waterfall, ensuring timely delivery. By integrating Wrike into your Waterfall project management approach, you can maintain project visibility and ensure you follow all the right steps to project completion.
Are you ready to transform your project management practices with a platform that enhances visibility and workflow throughout your entire project lifecycle? Start your two-week trial today.
Artem Gurnov
Artem is a Director of Account Development at Wrike. He previously held the role of Project Manager, overseeing a team of customer success managers (CSMs). Over the years of building teams and scaling business processes, he has successfully deployed multiple projects, from automating client outreach to setting up work prioritization tools for sales reps and CSMs.