How does waterfall project management differ from agile project management?

Waterfall project management is characterized by its linear and sequential approach, where each phase must be completed before moving on to the next. This model is heavily reliant on a well-defined scope, detailed planning, and thorough documentation upfront. It often operates under the assumption that all project requirements can be fully understood and articulated at the beginning. As a result, waterfall management requires a high degree of certainty about the project's timeline, deliverables, and resources, making it less adaptable to changes once the project is underway.

In contrast, agile project management emphasizes flexibility, allowing for scope changes as the project evolves. It focuses on delivering work in iterative cycles, promoting continuous delivery of products and collaboration with stakeholders. Therefore, the requirement for a high degree of certainty in waterfall management sets it apart from agile methodologies.