What is a major drawback of the Waterfall approach to software development?

The Waterfall approach to software development is characterized by its sequential and linear phases, where each phase must be completed before the next one begins. This means that the development process follows a rigid structure, starting from requirements gathering, moving through design and implementation, and ending with testing and deployment.

A significant drawback of this approach is that it typically delays the realization of value until the very end of the project. Since the end product is only delivered after all the phases are completed, the stakeholders and end-users do not experience any tangible results or feedback until the project is finished. This can lead to situations where the final product does not align well with current needs or expectations, as there is little opportunity for iterative feedback or adjustments during the development process.

The other aspects of the Waterfall model, such as its lack of flexibility and inability to accommodate changes in requirements once the project is underway, further emphasize why awaiting the final stages for value delivery can be problematic. By contrast, more iterative and agile methodologies allow for ongoing stakeholder engagement and continuous feedback, helping to ensure that the project remains aligned with user needs throughout its development lifecycle.