Waterfall Estimation
Waterfall Estimation is a project management technique used to predict the time, cost, and resources required for a project based on a linear, sequential development model. It involves detailed upfront planning and estimation before any development begins, typically breaking the project into distinct phases like requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance. This approach assumes that requirements are fully understood and stable at the outset, allowing for precise predictions and fixed schedules.
Developers should learn and use Waterfall Estimation when working on projects with well-defined, unchanging requirements, such as in regulated industries like healthcare or aerospace, where compliance and documentation are critical. It is suitable for small to medium-sized projects where scope is clear and stakeholders require predictable timelines and budgets, helping to minimize risks through thorough upfront analysis. However, it is less effective for agile or iterative projects where requirements evolve frequently.