What is the waterfall approach in the SDLC?

The waterfall approach in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is defined as a linear sequence of phases where each phase must be completed before the next one begins, and there is typically no going back to a previous phase. This methodology emphasizes a clear and structured progression through the stages of development, which generally includes requirements analysis, system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance.

The linear nature of the waterfall model means that once a phase is completed, the project moves on to the next phase without revisiting prior phases, which can help maintain a clear timeline and focus on meeting predefined milestones. This approach is beneficial for projects with well-understood requirements and limited expected changes, as it allows for straightforward documentation and management of the process.

In contrast, other methodologies, such as iterative or agile approaches, allow for revisiting phases and adapt to changes more fluidly, which is not a characteristic of the waterfall method. This makes the waterfall approach suitable for certain types of projects but less flexible than methods that promote ongoing collaboration and adjustment.