Waterfall Process vs. Incremental Process

Read this article, which compares the two broad processes for developing software. Then, select one of the methodologies (SDLC, RAD, Agile, Lean) you read about in Chapter 10 and do further research on the state of the art for that particular methodology. Write a four-six paragraph essay that describes the methodology you chose, your research findings, and the types of projects that use that methodology.

Foundation Series: Software Process (Waterfall Process versus Incremental Process)


A software process is the set of activities required to create software. This process can be defined with very precise steps, roles and responsibilities. The process can also be defined with a more fluid set activities in pursuit of concrete, high level objectives. Or software can be created without explicitly defining or following any process at all. The steps are always present, even if not conciously managed or defined.

A common framework is needed to compare processes and their merits. All software development includes the following three steps in some combination:

  1. Decide what to do.
  2. Do it.
  3. Deliver it.

It sounds like an overly simplified list; Decide, Develop, Deliver. We'll see that it isn't.

Source: Tyner Blain, http://tynerblain.com/blog/2006/01/03/foundation-series-software-process-waterfall-process-versus-incremental-process/
Creative Commons License This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.