Phasewise

Phasewise is an adjective used to describe a process, method, or evaluation that unfolds in distinct phases or steps rather than in a continuous flow. In a phasewise approach, each phase has specific objectives, inputs, outputs, and milestones, and progress is assessed before advancing to the next phase.

In project management and system engineering, phasewise development is common and often implemented through a phase-gate or stage-gate model. Projects proceed through predefined stages, with formal criteria that must be satisfied to move forward. This structure supports risk management, resource planning, and quality assurance, but can introduce longer timelines and coordination requirements.

In science and manufacturing, phasewise strategies organize activities such as synthesis, processing, testing, or validation into sequential stages. This can improve control over complex workflows, enable incremental optimization, and aid regulatory compliance. Drawbacks may include inflexible schedules, higher overhead, and potential bottlenecks if a later phase depends on earlier performance.

Applications of phasewise methods include phased product development, phased testing and deployment in software, and phased approaches to experimental design or process optimization. The concept is closely related to stage-gate and phased deployment strategies, as well as to modular design that enables clear progression from one phase to the next.

See also: phased approach, stage-gate process, phased deployment, modular design.