Incremental Model

Features of Incremental Model

The incremental model combines elements of linear and parallel process
flows.

Multiple development cycles take place here, making the life cycle a
multi-waterfall cycle.

Cycles are divided up into smaller, more easily managed modules.

The incremental model applies linear sequences in a staggered fashion

as calendar time progresses.

Each linear sequence produces deliverable increments of the software

[McD93] in a manner that is similar to the increments produced by an
evolutionary process flow.
 Features of Incremental Model cntd.,
Example:
word-processing software developed using the incremental
paradigm.

first increment - deliver basic file management, editing, and

document production functions.

second increment - more sophisticated editing and document

production capabilities.

third increment - spelling and grammar checking.

fourth increment - advanced page layout capability.

It should be noted that the process flow for any increment can
incorporate the prototyping paradigm.
 Features of Incremental Model cntd.,
When an incremental model is used, the first increment is often a core
product.

That is, basic requirements are addressed but many supplementary features
remain undelivered.

The core product is used by the customer.

A plan is developed for the next increment.

The plan addresses the modification of the core product to better meet the
needs of the customer and the delivery of additional features and
functionality.

This process is repeated following the delivery of each increment, until the
complete product is produced.

The incremental process model focuses on the delivery of an operational

product with each increment.
Incremental Model cntd.,
 Advantages of Incremental Model
1. Develop high-risk or major functions first
2. Each release delivers an operational product
3. Customer can respond to each build
4. Uses divide and conquer breakdown of tasks
5. Lowers initial delivery cost and Initial product delivery is faster
6. Customers get important functionality early
7. Risk of changing requirements is reduced
8. Generates working software quickly and early during the software life
cycle.
9. This model is more flexible less costly to change scope and
requirements.
10. It is easier to test and debug during a smaller iteration.
11. Incremental development is particularly useful when staffing is
unavailable for a complete implementation.
 Disadvantages of Incremental Model
1. Requires good planning and design.

2. Requires early definition of a complete and fully functional system to

allow for the definition of increments.

3. Well-defined module interfaces are required.

4. Total cost of the complete system is not lower.

5. Needs good planning and design.

6. Needs a clear and complete definition of the whole system before it

can be broken down and built incrementally.

7. Total cost is higher than waterfall.

 When to use the Incremental Model
1. Risk, funding, schedule, program complexity, or need for early
realization of benefits.

2. Most of the requirements are known up-front that is clearly defined

and understood but are expected to evolve over time.

3. A need to get basic functionality to the market early.

4. On projects which have lengthy development schedules and new

technology.

5. Resources with needed skill set are not available.

6. There are some high risk features and goals.