There are four main approaches to a project life cycle. In practice, one project may combine several of them. Understanding their characteristics helps you choose suitable tools for planning and organising the work.
Predictive life cycle
A traditional approach in which most planning happens before the project starts and work follows a defined sequence.
When to use it: for projects or phases with a well-tested approach and relatively low uncertainty, complexity and risk.
Iterative life cycle
An approach based on regular feedback. Each iteration draws on the learning from the previous one to refine the intended outcome.
When to use it: for complex projects with frequent changes, where research and feedback are needed to shape the final product.
Incremental life cycle
An approach in which the customer receives usable parts of the product progressively and can put them to work straight away.
When to use it: when early use matters and working modules can be delivered before the whole project is complete.
Agile life cycle
Combines iterative and incremental approaches: regular feedback and the progressive delivery of working parts of the product.
When to use it: when responsiveness, visible results, flexible management and delivering value in short cycles are important.
Hybrid life cycle
Combines several approaches within one project. Different phases may call for different ways of planning and carrying out the work.
When to use it: in complex, long-running projects with many variables and unknowns, including those that span design and ongoing support.
At a glance
| Approach | How work is organised |
|---|---|
| Predictive | Plan ahead and carry out work sequentially. |
| Iterative | Refine the result through repeated feedback cycles. |
| Incremental | Deliver usable parts of the product progressively. |
| Agile | Combine feedback with frequent delivery. |
| Hybrid | Combine approaches to suit the project. |
Based on material from Project Management Institute, Inc.