The general advantages of agile methodology versus waterfall methodology

 

 


Explain the general advantages of agile methodology versus waterfall methodology.

On what types of projects might each be most appropriate?

On an IT project (specifically IT, not another type of project) you personally worked on, describe what methodology you and the team used, and why, in detail.

How did that methodology work out, and why? Be personal and specific.

What unexpected challenges or roadblocks emerged during the course of the IT project that could have been avoided or mitigated using different techniques? Explain.

Looking back, do you think there could have been different strategies or approaches (such as agile and scrum) that could have worked more effectively? If so, what would you have done differently?

How has this experience influenced your approach to future IT projects? What lessons have you personally taken from this project that you plan to apply in future endeavors?

 

Sample Answer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agile vs. Waterfall: Advantages & Project Suitability

AspectAgile MethodologyWaterfall Methodology
FlexibilityHigh (iterative changes welcome)Low (fixed scope; changes costly)
Risk ManagementEarly & frequent risk identificationRisks identified late (post-design phase)
Customer FeedbackContinuous (delivers working increments)Minimal (final product delivery only)
AdaptabilityExcels in uncertain/volatile projectsBest for stable, well-defined projects
Delivery TimeFaster (functional parts delivered early)Slower (entire project delivered at end)
TransparencyHigh (daily standups, visible progress)Low (progress tracked at phase completion)

When Each is Most Appropriate:

  • Agile: Software development, product innovation, projects with evolving requirements.
  • Waterfall: Construction, manufacturing, regulated industries (e.g., medical devices), projects with fixed requirements.

Personal IT Project Experience

Project: CRM system migration for a mid-sized sales team.Methodology Used: Hybrid (Waterfall with Agile-like patches).Why?

  • Leadership assumed requirements were stable (Waterfall core).
  • IT team added "sprints" to fix critical bugs (unplanned Agile elements).
  • Flaw: No formal Agile framework—patches created chaos.