Is SDLC waterfall or agile?

Understanding SDLC: Waterfall vs. Agile

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is like a blueprint for building software. It outlines the steps needed to create, deploy, and maintain applications. Within SDLC, there are different approaches or models, with Waterfall and Agile being the most popular ones. Let’s explore how these two fit into the SDLC framework.

Waterfall

Sequential Process

The Waterfall model follows a linear and sequential approach. It moves through distinct phases one after the other, such as planning, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. Each phase must be completed before the next begins, making it straightforward and easy to manage. This model works best for projects with well-defined requirements and little expected change.

Agile

Iterative and Flexible

Agile is a more modern approach to SDLC that emphasizes flexibility and continuous improvement. Instead of following a strict sequence, Agile breaks the project into smaller parts called sprints. Each sprint involves planning, designing, coding, and testing. This allows teams to adapt to changes quickly and incorporate feedback throughout the development process, making it ideal for projects where requirements may evolve.

Which One to Choose

Choosing between Waterfall and Agile depends on your project’s needs. If your project has clear, fixed requirements and you prefer a structured approach, Waterfall might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you need flexibility and expect changes during development, Agile is usually better.

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Additional Resources

Explore the System Design Primer The Ultimate Guide for a comprehensive understanding. For personalized feedback, check out the System Design Mock Interview sessions by DesignGurus.io.