Why I Love Agile—But Sometimes Choose Waterfall

When I first started managing projects, I was all about structure. I’d map everything out—every task, every dependency—just like Waterfall demands. However, as I took on more complex projects, I realised something: not every plan survives first contact with reality. That’s when Agile stepped in and changed the game for me.

Table of Contents

• Waterfall: Where It Shines

• Agile: The Game-Changer

• How I Decide Today

Waterfall: Where It Shines

Waterfall works beautifully when you know exactly what you need to deliver. Imagine building a house—you can’t start painting walls before the foundation is solid. I’ve used Waterfall in projects like equipment installations or facility upgrades, where we couldn’t afford surprises. Its predictability was a lifesaver.

But here’s the catch: the whole project could unravel if something changed midway. I’ve learned the hard way that flexibility isn’t Waterfall’s strength.

Agile: The Game-Changer

Then came Agile. I started using it in fast-moving projects where the goals shifted frequently. Instead of planning every detail upfront, I could break the work into smaller phases, adjust along the way, and still make progress. Agile gave me the freedom to adapt without losing momentum.

It’s not perfect, though. Without discipline, Agile can spiral into chaos. That’s why a balance between structure and adaptability is key.

How I Decide Today

These days, I choose the methodology based on the project’s needs. If the scope is fixed and the stakes are high, it’s Waterfall. But for fast-paced, dynamic environments, Agile wins every time. Sometimes, I even combine the two—planning with Waterfall and executing with Agile.

Keep choosing the proper methodology for your projects. Each thoughtful decision strengthens your team’s focus, streamlines delivery, and sets the stage for lasting success.

See you next Saturday!