Waterfall Metrics
Waterfall Metrics are quantitative measures used to track and analyze the performance of projects managed under the Waterfall methodology, a linear and sequential approach to software development. These metrics focus on phases like requirements, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance, assessing aspects such as schedule adherence, budget compliance, defect rates, and phase completion times. They help in monitoring progress, identifying bottlenecks, and ensuring that projects meet predefined specifications and deadlines.
Developers should learn and use Waterfall Metrics when working in environments that follow the Waterfall methodology, such as large-scale enterprise projects, government contracts, or industries with strict regulatory requirements where predictability and documentation are critical. They are essential for project managers and teams to measure efficiency, control costs, and ensure quality by providing clear benchmarks for each phase, though they are less flexible for iterative or agile contexts.