Vandfaldsmodellerne

Vandfaldsmodellerne, or waterfall models, represent a sequential approach to project management and software development. This methodology breaks down a project into distinct, linear phases, with each phase needing to be fully completed before the next one can begin. The typical stages include requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance.

The core principle of the waterfall model is its rigid, step-by-step progression. Once a phase is finished and signed off, there is generally no going back to earlier stages. This structure aims to provide a clear roadmap and thorough documentation at each stage. It is often favored in projects with well-defined requirements and a low likelihood of change.

The advantages of the waterfall model include its simplicity and ease of understanding. The defined stages and deliverables make progress easy to track, and it can be effective for smaller, straightforward projects. However, its inflexibility is also its primary drawback. If requirements change midway through development, or if issues are discovered late in the process, it can be costly and time-consuming to rectify. This has led to the development of more iterative and adaptive methodologies.