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Description

The Waterfall model is one of the earliest and simplest models used in software development. It’s a linear and sequential approach, where each phase must be completed before the next one begins, like water flowing down a waterfall.

Phases of the Waterfall Model:

  1. Requirements Analysis: Gather and document what the software should do.
  2. System Design: Create architecture and design specifications.
  3. Implementation: Write the actual code based on the design.
  4. Testing: Test the software for bugs and verify it meets requirements.
  5. Deployment: Deliver the final product to users.
  6. Maintenance: Fix issues and make improvements post-launch.

Advantages:

  • Simple and easy to manage.
  • Clear milestones and documentation.
  • Good for small, well-understood projects.

Disadvantages:

  • Inflexible to changes (not great if requirements evolve).
  • No working software until late in the process.
  • Risky for complex or long-term projects.

Diagram

graph TD
    R[Requirements Analysis] --> D[System Design]
    D --> I[Implementation]
    I --> T[Testing]
    T --> P[Deployment]
    P --> M[Maintenance]