Modification date: January 22, 2023

Predictive vs. Adaptive Development

logo
Algothic
Predictive vs. Adaptive Development

When it comes to software development, selecting the right software model is just as critical as selecting the right vendor. Why is the model so important? A wise man once said that if you fail to plan, you plan to fail, and the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model is a critical component in planning a project. The SLDC is a conceptual framework that outlines all the activities in software development — in other words, it’s the key planning tool that will guide your developers step by step through the project. You need a model that can maintain all the business requirements, ensure every feature is designed and built properly, and ensure the project operates as it should.

So what are the options, and what kind do you need? Generally speaking, the various SDLC models fall into two major groups: predictive adaptive. Both approaches are equally valid, and it’s the project type that should drive the model selection. The choice will depend on evaluation of all the pros and cons of each model in the context of the particular project’s goals and constraints.

Predictive Development

Predictive, or incremental, development is a software development methodology where the model is designed, implemented, and tested incrementally (piece by piece) until the product is finished—or until all the requirements have been satisfied. This model combines the elements of the waterfall model with the iterative philosophy of prototyping. In this model, each module passes through the requirements, design, implementation, and testing phases.

As this model involves delivering system components as they’re completed, it allows for partial utilization of product—meaning completed features can be used before the full project is finished—and avoids a long development time. That means this model helps ease the traumatic effect of introducing a completely new system all at once.

Pros:

  • The predictive model generates a working software product quicker than the adaptive model.
  • It’s easier to manage risk with this model because potential obstacles are identified and handled during their first iterations.
  • It is easier to test and debug during iterations of smaller pieces than on the full product.
  • This model allows for more flexibility, as changes to scope and requirements may be made to every increment.

Cons:

  • This model requires good planning and design. If tasks aren't done properly in each phase, the entire project can be impacted.
  • A clear and complete definition of the whole system is required before it can be broken down and built incrementally.
  • Additional efforts are required to integrate each individual component of the system.

When to Use the Predictive Model

So, how do you know if the predictive development approach is right for your product? Here are a few of the biggest signs:

  • The requirements of the software are clear and can be implemented in logical phases, even though some details may evolve with time.
  • The product includes some high-risk features and goals.
  • The development plan calls for new technology.
  • Your business needs clarity on and strict adherence to a timeline based on the agreed-upon scope.

Adaptive Development

Adaptive life cycles like SCRUM or Kanban (also known as agile or change-driven approaches) are designed to iterate rapidly on projects that are a little more experimental or less certain. They’re dependent on ongoing contributions from all stakeholders, and they react quickly to the changes in project scope and system requirements. This approach is sometimes referred to as “freeform software design” as it offers an incredibly flexible design model, promoting adaptive planning and evolutionary development when the end goal is not quite as concrete.

At Algothic we deploy cross-functional teams to take an agile approach to the majority of our projects. This approach entails short sprints with frequent product demo sessions that allow flexibility and prompt adjustments during any phase of the development process, reducing the risk of wasted costs, even when we’re moving fast. Daily scrum meetings are intended to track progress and proactively react to changing conditions. With this approach, too, product owners and managers are closely involved in the development process, eventually becoming a part of a team to allow real collaboration between our developers and our clients.

Pros:

  • This model allows for evolving requirements so change can be implemented very easily given the shorter planning cycles (sprints).
  • This model encourages customer satisfaction through fast and continuous delivery.
  • Adaptive development encourages active involvement and interaction from key project stakeholders, which allows for product build based on priority and accuracy.

Cons:

  • Planning can be dubious.
  • Team members must be highly skilled and cross-skilled as core teams are small.
  • The project can easily get thrown off track if the customer is not clear on the desired final outcome.

When to Use the Adaptive Model

Given all of this, what are some indicators that your project would benefit from an adaptive development approach?

  • The end goals of projects are not clearly defined.
  • It’s important to begin the implementation process quickly. (For large and dynamic projects with evolving requirements, it makes no sense to belabor the process of predefining requirements in minute detail).
  • The project calls for experimental software design.

Difference between Adaptive Development and Predictive Development

When you get down to brass tacks, the difference between the two approaches is that the adaptive approach enables more flexibility and makes more room for change throughout the development process, while the predictive model is more appropriate for a project with a definite vision and set of specs that aren’t likely to change midstream.

To see the difference in action, consider this chart that shows the two processes side-by-side. The predictive development process is more or less linear, planning, creating, reviewing, and releasing each component in one fell swoop, while the agile approach is iterative, spiraling through shorter cycles that start with a complete but bare-bones product and layer on features, functionality, and complexity throughout the process.

Publication date: September 16, 2019

Explore More Resources:

What our customers say about us

Algothic’s team was highly responsive and communicative, managing our project smoothly, responding immediately to any issues that arose, and delivering great software at a reasonable price.

Richard Harkness

CEO, ADEPT Driver

Elk Grove, CA

How we help ADEPT Driver Company

We developed a web-based driving simulator for teens and another for adults. The products run on Chromebooks, and the team added features that enable them to measure a driver's ability to avoid a crash.

Technologies used

I don't think you could find a better company to manage and build your project. I get so many compliments on my application, and it has a lot of unique and complex development.

Todd Surber

CEO, PIXRIT

Charleston, South Carolina

How we help PIXRIT Company

A photographer approached us to build a web-based software platform that combines the fastest social media manager with state-of-the-art galleries and provides the ultimate tool for photographers to upload, store, back up, and share their photos and manage their SMM activities.

Technologies used

The high-quality, user-friendly software Algothic created for us has helped grow our clientele, and we were very pleased with their partnership. Algothic was straightforward and consistent in their communication, met every deadline, and ensured a hassle-free development process.

Vince Hughes

Owner, Steel Estimating Solutions

Knoxville, TN

How we help Steel Estimating Solutions Company

Our client was inspired to create a product that helps steel erection companies perform faster, more efficient estimations and bids. We developed original proprietary software from the initial concept.

Technologies used

Algothic delivered world-class service for a cost-efficient price. They communicated well with our team throughout the process, breaking down steps and utilizing a streamlined management system to keep everyone in the loop at all times. The resulting new platform far outperforms its predecessor and has received rave reviews.

Bill Fahy

Owner, FDI Creative Services

Houston, TX

How we help FDI Creative Services Company

Following strict regulations and requirements, we used AWS to develop a custom e-commerce web app that includes shipping integration. Since the site’s launch, the team has continued to make updates.

Technologies used

The application was delivered on time and within budget. Algothic explained their process thoroughly and accommodated to scope changes effortlessly. Their stellar project management, highly responsive communication, and proactive attitude set them apart.

Ricardo Casas

CEO, Fahrenheit Marketing

Austin, TX

How we help Fahrenheit Marketing Company

We developed a large, complex .NET application with various third-party integrations. The team built the software from scratch based on existing wireframes.

Technologies used

The end solution exceeded the client’s expectations. Algothic delivered high-quality products on time and at outstanding value. They provided frequent updates and repeatedly sought feedback at each stage. Customers can expect a highly experienced team that easily translates concepts into solutions.

Rudy Milkovic

Executive Director, Velikom

Austin, TX

How we help Velikom Company

Our team built video streaming software as a web and desktop app for a third-party client. We completed end-to-end development—from scoping to feedback cycles to QA—using PHP and Wowza Streaming Engine.

Technologies used

Algothic has significantly improved our existing platform, and they continue demonstrate their dedication to our business goals and needs by making thoughtful suggestions for enhancements. The Algothic team is communicative and reliable, mitigating all our concerns about outsourcing software development.

Cory Kowal

VP of Products, THG Energy Solutions

Tulsa, OK

How we help THG Energy Solutions Company

Taking over for another vendor, we served as the ongoing software engineering partner for an energy company’s cloud-based platform. The company provided scoping, development, testing, and deployment services.

Technologies used

Algothic has been an invaluable partner in development. Their impressive team was more than able to fulfill our project needs, and their expertise and dedication led to smooth collaboration every step of the way. The result was a successfully launched product that has received lots of positive feedback.

Chris Cox

CTO, MyMelo

Louisville, Kentucky

How we help MyMelo Company

We provided staff augmentation resources for a development project. The team contributed engineers to follow an established roadmap to perform updates and add features.

Technologies used

The database Algothic developed has empowered 40 organizations to help in the fight against COVID-19. A communicative partner, the Algothic team worked quickly and efficiently to launch the website, and they continue to invest their time and efforts into the project.

David Snyder

Product Director, Covid Resource Network

West Orange, New Jersey

How we help Covid Resource Network Company

The company developed a website that serves as a database where organizations can find and donate to other organizations. Currently, the team is working on enhancing the website and fixing bugs.

Technologies used

Algothic was a patient partner, making this engagement feel like a true collaboration. The system they created for us will save our team significant time and frustration.

Joyce Cubio

VP of Operations, Ernie's Mobile Home Transport

Yuba, California

How we help Ernie's Mobile Home Transport Company

The team built an information hub for a mobile home transport and permit service. After discussing the existing system and processes, we delivered a new structure for forms and data.

Technologies used

The Algothic team is skilled at juggling multiple projects. Though they are in high demand, we were confident that they had the resources and the expertise needed to focus on our partnership. Their constant dedication led to a truly successful engagement, and the final product exceeded all our expectations.

John Fox

Executive VP, Fox Business Automation Solutions

Lakeland, Florida

How we help Fox Business Automation Solutions Company

Brought on as a third party, we supplied ongoing development services. The team work on multiple projects and deliver according to predetermined design specifications.

Technologies used

Contact us to learn more about how Algothic can help your business achieve its every goal!

0 / 2500

Sign a mutual NDA before a conversation.

When to sign an NDA?

A non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is a legal contract between parties, such as the software developer (or a software development firm) and yourself, outlining information to be shared and requiring that information be kept confidential.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Submit loading...

Was this page helpful?