WU The Waterfall Linear versus Iterative Life Cycle Models Analysis

Below is a chart showing the comparison between waterfall/linear life cycles and iterative life cycles. With a linear life cycle, the biggest risks are not usually apparent until the integration phase, which is near the end of the project. These projects fail only after spending a great deal of time and money. In contrast, iterative life cycles attempt to identify and address the biggest risk items first. If these risks cannot be resolved, the project fails quickly and much cheaper.

This comparison, along with others, shows why many software engineering projects have switched to an iterative life cycle. That being said, the waterfall/linear life cycle is still commonly used. Why would a customer or company choose to use the iterative life cycle over the waterfall/linear life cycle? What are the benefits to using the waterfall/linear life cycle?

In this Discussion, you answer these questions about iterative life cycles through the lens of a real-world case study.

To prepare:

Read “From Waterfall to Iterative Development—A Challenging Transition for Project Managers and “Changing the Paradigm of Software Engineering,” focusing on the risks and benefits of switching to the iterative life cycle, Attached below.

Post a summary of a case study in which an organization moved away from the waterfall/linear software development cycle to an iterative or agile life cycle. Explain the resulting changes to process, project plan, and product.