Difference between RAD Model and Waterfall Model
Last Updated : 29 May, 2024
The waterfall model is a linearly sequential life cycle model of software development in which software testing is carried out after all coding steps have been completed. This is the most fundamental distinction between the waterfall model and the RAD model. Rapid Application Development (RAD), on the other hand, uses an incremental approach to software development. Learn more about the waterfall model, the RAD model, and how they differ from one another by reading this article.
Waterfall Model
The Waterfall Model is also known as the Classical or Traditional Model. Sometimes It is referred to as the linear-sequential life cycle model because all phases involved in this model are completed one by one linearly. In this model, we get software after the completion of all coding phases. This model is used for small projects. There exist only one cycle in the waterfall model.
Waterfall ModelRAD Model
RAD model stands for Rapid Application Development and it is the type of Incremental Model. It can't handle large projects but it can handle small projects as well as medium projects. In the RAD model, any changes can be made at any stage but in the waterfall, it can't happen.
Planning at the initial phases of development is not necessary using the RAD approach of software development. The quick development of the application is the RAD model's main objective. For development, the RAD paradigm requires a small team size. The RAD approach also allows for any adjustments to be made at any time. Consequently, compared to the waterfall model, it is a model that is adaptable to changes. When using the RAD paradigm, there is less risk associated.
Difference between the RAD Model and the Waterfall Model
Aspect | Waterfall Model | RAD Model |
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Classification | Waterfall model is known as the Classical/Traditional Model. | RAD stands for Rapid Application Development. |
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Planning | Planning is required in the early stage. | There is no such constraint in the RAD model. |
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Objective | High assurance is what it aims for. | Its objective is rapid development. |
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Risk | There is a high amount of risk in the waterfall model. | There is a low amount of risk in the RAD model. |
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Team Size | In the waterfall model large team size is required. | In the RAD model small team size is required. |
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Project Size | The waterfall model can’t handle large projects. | The RAD model also can't handle large projects but usually, it is preferred between large and small projects. |
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Changes | Any changes can be made in the waterfall model only at the beginning. | Any changes can be made in the RAD model at any time. |
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Product Delivery | The product of the Waterfall model is delivered after the completion of all stages. | The product of the RAD model will be delivered as soon as possible. |
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Waiting Time | There is a long waiting time for running software in the waterfall model. | There is less waiting time for running software in the RAD model, as its first version is released as soon as possible. |
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Client Requirements | Waterfall model is not compatible with the change in client requirements. | The RAD model may work with the change in client requirements. |
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Flexibility | It is not flexible to changes. | It is flexible to changes. |
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Customer Control | Customer control over the administrator is much less. | Customer control over the administrator is more in comparison to the waterfall model. |
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