How does Agile methodology differ from Waterfall methodology?

Agile methodology indeed focuses on flexibility, which is one of its hallmark characteristics. Unlike Waterfall, which follows a linear and sequential approach where each phase must be completed before moving to the next, Agile allows for iterative development. This means that requirements and solutions evolve through the collaborative effort of cross-functional teams. Agile encourages regular feedback and adaptation throughout the project lifecycle, facilitating a more responsive and dynamic approach to changes in requirements or priorities.

The nature of Agile enables teams to work in short cycles called sprints, where they can prioritize tasks based on the most immediate needs of the project stakeholders. This flexibility is particularly useful in environments where user requirements may change frequently, allowing teams to pivot as necessary rather than adhere to a fixed project plan.

Other choices present misconceptions about Agile and Waterfall methodologies. For example, Agile does not require extensive documentation as a priority; instead, it favors working software as the primary measure of progress. Waterfall’s linear approach may lead to more comprehensive documentation at each stage, but this is not the focus of Agile. Additionally, while the cost of a project can vary based on numerous factors, it is not inherently true that Agile is more costly than Waterfall; the cost efficiency of each methodology depends on context and implementation.