incrementally

Incrementally is an adverb describing actions performed in small, successive increments rather than in a single, large change. The term derives from incremental, itself from the noun increment, from Latin incrementum.

In software development, incremental processes deliver software in small, functional pieces rather than a single final product. Incremental backups save only changes since the previous backup. Incremental compilation updates only changed components to speed builds. In data science and machine learning, incremental learning updates models as new data arrives, without retraining from scratch.

In project management and economics, incremental approaches emphasize gradual improvements or phased implementation. Benefits include lower risk, easier testing, and faster feedback. Potential drawbacks include the need for ongoing coordination and the possibility that small changes do not add up to a coherent overall design; cumulative effects can differ from a single, large change.

Related terms include iterative, phased, and stepwise. The idea contrasts with wholesale, large-scale changes or “big bang” implementations.