nonagile

Nonagile is a term used to describe software development, project management, and systems engineering approaches that do not align with the Agile Manifesto’s values and principles. It is not a single methodology, but a broad category that includes plan-driven, structured methods such as Waterfall, traditional systems development life cycles, and V-models.

Key characteristics of nonagile approaches include up-front requirements specification, fixed scope, and linear or sequential development stages. They typically rely on extensive documentation, formal approvals, and fixed budgets and schedules. Customer involvement is usually limited to predefined milestones rather than ongoing collaboration. Risk management and quality assurance are often handled through formal governance, reviews, and testing conducted late in the development cycle.

Advantages of nonagile methods are most evident in environments where predictability, traceability, and regulatory compliance are paramount. They can provide clearer governance, documented requirements, and easier coordination across large, distributed teams. They may also be preferred when requirements are well understood and unlikely to change significantly.

Criticisms of nonagile approaches center on their relative rigidity and slower ability to respond to changing needs. They can result in longer delivery times, higher risk of late-stage defects, and reduced stakeholder feedback. As a result, many organizations opt for more flexible, iterative methods or adopt hybrid approaches that blend plan-driven and Agile elements to balance stability with adaptability.