HKSM
iterative approach
A development method that starts with a basic, working version and then improves it through repeated cycles, expanding and refining functionality until the final product is achieved.
Key Points
- Begins with a simple baseline and evolves the solution in repeated cycles.
- Each cycle refines design, quality, and understanding based on feedback.
- Well-suited for uncertain or changing requirements, reducing risk through early learning.
- Can be paired with incremental delivery, but its emphasis is on refinement and iteration.
Example
A team building a customer portal first delivers a minimal account view with basic login. In subsequent iterations, they revisit the design and code to enhance performance, add profile editing, improve security, and refine the UI, using stakeholder feedback each cycle until the full portal is complete.
PMP Example Question
A project manager wants to handle evolving requirements by first releasing a simple, working version and then repeatedly refining it based on stakeholder feedback. Which approach best fits this plan?
- Iterative approach
- Incremental approach
- Predictive (waterfall) approach
- Big-bang deployment
Correct Answer: A — Iterative approach
Explanation: The iterative approach focuses on starting with a basic solution and improving it through repeated cycles, incorporating feedback and refinement each time.
