Serial Lifecycle (Waterfall Lifecycle)

The Serial Lifecycle, commonly known as the Waterfall Lifecycle, is a traditional project management approach that follows a linear and sequential progression through predefined phases. In the context of Disciplined Agile (DA), the Serial Lifecycle is recognized as one of the lifecycle options to be considered, particularly when a predictive approach is more suitable for the project at hand. In this lifecycle, the project progresses through distinct stages such as Inception, Elaboration, Construction, Transition, and Production. Each phase must be completed before the next one begins, and there is minimal overlap between phases. This approach emphasizes thorough upfront planning, extensive documentation, and a structured progression of activities. The Serial Lifecycle is suited for projects where requirements are well-understood, unlikely to change significantly, and where a high degree of predictability is required. It is often used in industries with rigorous regulatory requirements, critical safety considerations, or where contractual obligations necessitate a traditional approach. While the agile methodologies promote flexibility and adaptability, the Serial Lifecycle acknowledges that not all projects are best served by an iterative approach. In some cases, stakeholders may prefer or require the predictability and control offered by a serial lifecycle. DA provides guidance on how to apply disciplined agile practices within a serial context, integrating agile techniques to improve efficiency even within a traditional framework. The Serial Lifecycle in DA still places importance on delivering value, effective stakeholder engagement, and quality outcomes. It encourages the application of agile principles such as continuous improvement and effective communication, even within the constraints of a sequential process. By including the Serial Lifecycle as an option, DA recognizes the need for flexibility in methodology selection, allowing organizations to choose the most appropriate lifecycle based on project characteristics, stakeholder needs, and environmental factors. This approach ensures that even in traditional projects, teams can benefit from the disciplined application of agile practices to enhance performance and deliver successful outcomes.