00:00In software development, one of the most popular and classic approaches is the waterfall model.
00:05It's a sequential or linear approach where development is seen as flowing steadily downwards
00:10through several distinct phases. Just like a real waterfall, you complete one level
00:16before moving to the next. The waterfall model traditionally consists of five core phases that
00:22must be completed in order. Requirements. Gathering and documenting exactly what the customer needs.
00:28Design. Transforming those requirements into a technical blueprint or architecture.
00:33Development. The actual coding phase where the software is built.
00:37Testing. Thoroughly checking the code for bugs and errors.
00:41Deployment and maintenance. Making the software available to users and updating it over time.
00:46It all starts with requirements. The team collects essential needs, eliminates inconsistencies,
00:53and documents everything in a software requirement specification, or SRS.
00:58Then comes design, where requirements are turned into a format that can be coded,
01:03resulting in a software design document.
01:05SDD. During development, programmers use the SDD to turn the conceptual system
01:10into a functioning product. Once built, the software enters testing to ensure quality and
01:16satisfy customers. Finally, in deployment, the software is installed and configured for the end
01:22users. Even after launch, the work isn't done. The maintenance phase involves two main types.
01:28Corrective maintenance. Fixing undiscovered errors from earlier stages.
01:32Perfective maintenance. Enhancing the software based on future trends and customer demands.
01:38Why choose waterfall? Advantages of the waterfall model ideal for clear requirements.
01:42This model is perfectly suited for projects where all requirements are predefined and clearly
01:48understood from the beginning. Stability. Requirements stay consistent and do not change
01:53throughout the development process. Simplicity. The model is easy to understand, follow, and
01:58implement. Defined structure. Every activity to be performed in each distinct phase is clearly
02:04defined. Predictability. Key metrics such as the release date and the final total cost are already
02:10estimated before actual development begins. Task management. It is easier for project managers to assign
02:17specific tasks to different team members within structured phases. Thorough documentation. All
02:23processes, actions, and results are well documented throughout the life cycle. Disadvantages of the
02:29waterfall model. Inflexibility. A significant drawback is its rigidity. Making mid-project adjustments or
02:35changes is very challenging. Lengthy delivery times. Because the entire project must be completed before any
02:42delivery happens, long delivery times are inherent to the model. High risk of failure. There is a high
02:48risk of project failure due to late-stage client visibility and potential dissatisfaction. Testing
02:54is performed toward the end of development, which makes late defect detection a major concern.
02:59Sequential dependency. Since each phase must be 100% complete before the next begins, any delay in an
03:06early stage, like requirements, pushes back the entire schedule. The waterfall model is perfect for
03:12projects where requirements are crystal clear from day one. If you want to learn more about project
03:17management models, hit that like button and subscribe for more.
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