WaterfallAgile
ApproachStep by step, one phase after anotherShort cycles (sprints) of 1–4 weeks
PlanningAll up front, fixed scopeOngoing; scope evolves
ChangesHard and costly late onExpected every sprint
DeliveryOne big release at the endWorking software every sprint
Best forFixed, well-known requirementsProducts where needs change
In practice
Most teams mix both: they plan the big picture, then deliver in sprints.
Common Agile frameworks
- Scrum: fixed-length sprints with planning, reviews and retrospectives
- Kanban: a continuous flow of work on a board, limiting work in progress
- SAFe: Agile scaled across many teams
- Lean: cut waste and deliver value faster
Why it matters for your career
Most tech jobs today run some form of Agile. Expect to join stand-ups, sprints and retros from your first week.
