Scrum, Kanban, or Waterfall? Guide to Choosing Your Methodology
2025-10-16
Choosing the wrong methodology can cost you months of work and budget. We analyze the three most used frameworks in software development and creative projects so you make the right decision from day one.
When to Choose Each?
Waterfall
Ideal for: Projects with clear requirements (e.g., banking apps).
Advantage: Detailed documentation for compliance.
Real case: Boeing uses Waterfall for aeronautical development.
Scrum
Ideal for: Teams of 3-9 people with variable goals.
Advantage: Steady pace with predictable deliveries.
Real case: Spotify scales with Scrum-of-Scrums.
Kanban
Ideal for: Technical support, maintenance, or multidisciplinary teams.
Advantage: Maximum adaptability to priority changes.
Real case: Toyota reduces inventories with Kanban.
Hybrids Dominating 2024
Scrumban: Sprint planning + Kanban flexibility.
Agile-Waterfall: Waterfall for initial phases, Agile for development.
Key Questions to Decide
1. Can requirements change? → Yes (Scrum/Kanban), No (Waterfall).
2. Do you need partial deliveries? → Yes (Scrum/Kanban), No (Waterfall).
3. Is your team multidisciplinary? → Yes (Kanban), No (Scrum).
Crucial fact: Agile projects have 28% higher success rates (Standish Group).