Working
Methodologies
Waterfall Method
For Constrained Budget
Very clear scope and stable set of requirements that isn't likely to change throughout the project
Agile Scrum
For Evolving Scope/Hired Team
The scope is defined very briefly and the requirements are very likely to change throughout the project
How to Engage?
Every project is unique and requires personalized attention. In addition to the crucial balance of cost, time, and scope, the working relationship between the 'client' and the 'agency' plays a vital role in maintaining that balance.
That’s why we have clear and adaptable project execution models that are client-centric at their core. Before starting any project, whether it's a simple website or a complex software development, it's crucial for us to guide you in choosing the ‘right’ project execution model.
“A project may be completed without a defined execution process, but more often than not, its absence leads to failure.”
Waterfall or Agile? The right process for you!
Among the many project management methodologies available, we primarily utilize two widely recognized ones: the Waterfall Methodology and the Agile Methodology. Each of these methodologies is best suited for specific types of projects. Choosing the right strategy and execution model, based on the unique characteristics of your project, is a critical decision. Our team of experts is here to help you make this important choice for the best possible outcome.
Flexible at the core. Organized to stay in sync
Engaging with Waterfall Method
The Waterfall methodology is structured into linear, sequential phases, where each phase depends on the deliverables from the previous one. The project lifecycle under this method can be broken down into five key stages: discovery, definition, design, development, and delivery.
To determine if your project is suited for Waterfall Project Management, it’s important to consider factors like the assumptions made about the project, project constraints, objectives, business needs, and acceptance criteria. If all of these elements are clearly defined and measurable, then the Waterfall methodology is likely the right fit for your project.
Since your project will have well-defined features and functionality, a Software Requirement Specification (SRS) document will be created to outline the expectations and scope of the project. This document will guide the project through to its final handoff.
What if my requirements evolve?
Given the uniqueness of every project, uncertainties are inevitable during its execution, whether it's due to buggy third-party dependencies or changes in the project scope. We ensure these uncertainties are identified early and managed effectively, mitigating risks throughout the project's lifecycle.
Additionally, we take the time to thoroughly plan the various aspects of a project before execution, but changes are inevitable as the project progresses. After all, "change is the only constant" in any project. To handle this, we have a system in place to manage changes effectively. We assess the impact of changes on the existing scope, estimate the time and costs involved, and ensure the SRS document is updated accordingly.
The Waterfall process follows its structured path, with the Quality Assurance (QA) process at the end to ensure that the project deliverables align with the predefined or revised scope. This final step guarantees that the product meets the required standards before completion.
Use Cases:
The Waterfall Methodology
Stability
Has a very clear scope and stable set of requirements that are unlikely to change throughout the project.
Predictability
Can define clear long term milestones and can review the progress based on periodic deliverables.
Development Ready
Less time to spend with the development team due to the product owner needing to focus on the business side of the venture.
Budget
Constrained budget with critical features that cannot be compromised.
Adopting the Agile SCRUM Method
Ongoing Iteration. Faster Risk Mitigation
The SCRUM methodology is an implementation of the Agile project management approach, focusing on continuous iteration of development and testing throughout the software development lifecycle. Unlike the Waterfall model, both development and testing occur concurrently.
Agile Vs Waterfall
When is the Agile Project Execution Model Most Effective?
A product that requires iterative development and collaboration within an integrated team.
A product that requires a faster risk mitigation strategy or a "fail-early" approach to development.
The quality, cost, and time for developing the product are important constants, with flexible and evolving requirements.
Roles in SCRUM
We have three key scrum roles. There is the product owner ーthe one who came up with the idea for the product, the scrum master who ensures the team members follow the agile principles and value, and then the team members themselves; they are ideally a team of seven cross-functional members.
Deliverables in Agile Method
Product Backlog
This is generally in the form of user stories. It is prepared by the product owner. It is here the product clients vision for the product is drafted.
Release Backlog
The release backlog is prepared by the SCRUM master who takes the product backlog as input, and translates it into a list of tasks that would be released intermittently.
Sprint Backlog
This is prepared in collaboration with the team. Here, the release backlog is taken and divided into sprints of one or two weeks.
Defect Backlog
The defect backlog contains a list of defects identified during the one to two weeks sprint. These defects are dealt with immediately which is necessary for a project to be declared complete.
Agile Meetings
We have three key scrum roles. There is the product owner ーthe one who came up with the idea for the product, the scrum master who ensures the team members follow the agile principles and value, and then the team members themselves; they are ideally a team of seven cross-functional members.
Use Cases: Agile SCRUM Methodology
Short Team Goals
Clear short-term milestones and periodic reviews of the progress.
Iterative Development
More time to spend with the development team by sharing clear objectives and goals so that they are always in sync with the project manager.
Feature Inspection
Multiple iterations of a given feature and fine-tuning of the feature by inspecting all the parts.
Sprint Planning
The client requires early and frequent opportunities to look at the product and make decisions and changes to the project.
Continuous Reviews
Make regressive iterations in the testing phase is required.
Agile works best with projects that have a high level of uncertainty
Waterfall works best for projects with high value and certainty
Agile and Waterfall represent two distinct approaches in project management. The choice of the right project execution method, whether Waterfall or Agile, depends on the specific context of your project. As we always say—every project is unique and requires a tailored approach.
Contrary to what many believe, Agile methodology isn’t suitable for every project. For example, if you own a successful grocery store and plan to open another one, using Agile project management wouldn't be necessary. It would waste valuable resources. We help our clients determine if Agile is the right approach by assessing factors like uncertainty, value proposition, and the operational or value risks involved.
Similarly, the Waterfall method, often considered the more "traditional" approach to project management, is associated with higher "quality" standards due to its strict documentation and structured, sequential processes. However, this isn't always the case, as "quality" is subjective and depends on the specific context of the project. You can achieve high quality in Agile projects just as much as in Waterfall projects. Similarly, poor quality can occur in both Waterfall and Agile projects if not managed properly.
