This was the first process model to be introduced, it describes a development method that is linear and sequential. In the waterfall method all the steps are defined in the beginning and once a phase is completed there’s no way back.
Advantages of the waterfall method:
- This model is simple and easy to understand and use.
- It is easy to manage due to the rigidity of the model – each phase has specific deliverables and a review process.
- In this model phases are processed and completed one at a time. Phases do not overlap.
- Waterfall model works well for smaller projects where requirements are very well understood.
Disadvantages of the waterfall method:
- Once an application is in the testing stage, it is very difficult to go back and change something that was not well-thought out in the concept stage.
- No working software is produced until late during the life cycle.
- High amounts of risk and uncertainty.
- Not a good model for complex and object-oriented projects.
- Poor model for long and ongoing projects.
- Not suitable for the projects where requirements are at a moderate to high risk of changing.
I found a really nice video that explains the waterfall methodology in only two minutes.
