Why is the waterfall model valuable in the management of information technology projects?
Refer to "Arguments for the Waterfall Model" in
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterfall_model
The waterfall model is a sequential software development model (a process for the creation of software) in which development is seen as flowing steadily downwards (like a waterfall) through the phases of requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing (validation), integration, and maintenance. The origin of the term "waterfall" is often cited to be an article published in 1970 by W. W. Royce; ironically, Royce himself advocated an iterative approach to software development and did not even use the term "waterfall". Royce originally described what is now known as the waterfall model as an example of a method that he argued "is risky and invites failure".
The waterfall model is often valued in the management of information technology projects for several reasons.
First, it provides a clear and structured approach to project management. The sequential nature of the waterfall model allows for a systematic and organized progression from one phase to another. This helps in better planning and resource allocation, as each phase has defined deliverables and milestones.
Second, the waterfall model emphasizes thorough documentation and requirements analysis. This helps in capturing and understanding the project requirements upfront, preventing any misunderstandings or miscommunications later on in the development process.
Third, the waterfall model is useful when there are well-defined and stable project requirements. In situations where the requirements are unlikely to change significantly during the project, the sequential nature of the waterfall model enables a linear progression through the defined phases.
Fourth, the waterfall model allows for easier tracking and management of progress. With defined deliverables and milestones, it becomes easier to monitor the project's progress and identify any potential deviations or delays.
However, it is important to note that the waterfall model may not be suitable for all types of projects. It assumes that the project requirements are fully known and will not change, which may not always be the case in dynamic environments. Additionally, the sequential nature of the model may result in limited flexibility and adaptability, making it less suitable for projects with evolving requirements or uncertain scopes.
To get a more detailed understanding of the arguments for the waterfall model, you can refer to the Wikipedia page on the "Waterfall Model" at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterfall_model.