When to Use Agile vs. Waterfall

Agile and waterfall are two popular methods for organizing projects. Waterfall is a more traditional approach to project management, which involves a linear project flow. Agile, on the other hand, encompasses an iterative approach to projects. So, when should you use Agile vs. waterfall in your projects? 

Waterfall is best for clearly defined projects with definitive timelines and well-defined deliverables. In other words, if your major project constraints are well understood and documented, waterfall is likely the best approach. 

The Agile methodology was created to handle projects where the major constraints are not well understood. For instance, if your project involves the development of a new product, the scope and timeline may be difficult to define in advance. Agile is flexible and enables you to plan a project in stages or “sprints” so that your project plan can evolve as the project progresses.