WATERFALL MODEL

INTRODUCTION:
The Waterfall Model was the first Process Model to be introduced. It is also referred to as a
linear-sequential life cycle model. It is very simple to understand and use. In a waterfall
model, each phase must be completed before the next phase can begin and there is no
overlapping in the phases.
The Waterfall model is the earliest SDLC approach that was used for software development.
The waterfall Model illustrates the software development process in a linear sequential flow.
This means that any phase in the development process begins only if the previous phase is
complete. In this waterfall model, the phases do not overlap.

WATERFALL MODEL DESIGN:

Waterfall approach was first SDLC Model to be used widely in Software Engineering to
ensure success of the project. In "The Waterfall" approach, the whole process of software
development is divided into separate phases. In this Waterfall model, typically, the outcome
of one phase acts as the input for the next phase sequentially.
The following illustration is a representation of the different phases of the Waterfall Model.

The sequential phases in Waterfall model are −

 Requirement Gathering and analysis − All possible requirements of the system to be
developed are captured in this phase and documented in a requirement specification
document.
  System Design − the requirement specifications from first phase are studied in this
phase and the system design is prepared. This system design helps in specifying
hardware and system requirements and helps in defining the overall system
architecture.
 Implementation − with inputs from the system design, the system is first developed in
small programs called units, which are integrated in the next phase. Each unit is
developed and tested for its functionality, which is referred to as Unit Testing.
 Integration and Testing − All the units developed in the implementation phase are
integrated into a system after testing of each unit. Post integration the entire system is
tested for any faults and failures.
 Deployment of system − Once the functional and non-functional testing is done; the
product is deployed in the customer environment or released into the market.
 Maintenance − There are some issues which come up in the client environment. To fix
those issues, patches are released. Also to enhance the product some better versions
are released. Maintenance is done to deliver these changes in the customer
environment.

WHY CHOOSE THE WATERFALL MODEL?

Opting for the waterfall method over other project management methodologies, such as agile
or iterative approaches, can be advantageous in certain scenarios due to its structured and
linear nature. Here are several reasons why one might prefer the waterfall method:

1. Clear Structure and Documentation:

 Predictability: The waterfall method offers a clear and predictable framework, with
each phase having specific deliverables and a review process, simplifying
management and control.
 Detailed Documentation: Extensive documentation at each phase ensures thorough
understanding and agreement of all requirements before moving to the next phase,
which is beneficial for regulatory compliance or projects requiring detailed
traceability.

2. Well-Defined Requirements:
 Stable Requirements: The waterfall method is ideal when requirements are well-
understood and unlikely to change. The upfront requirement analysis ensures a clearly
defined project scope.
 Minimized Risk of Scope Creep: A fixed scope and well-defined milestones help
minimize the risk of scope creep.

3. Ease of Management:
 Simple Management: The sequential nature makes it easier to manage, with a clear
path of progression. Each phase must be completed before the next begins,
simplifying the project management process.
 Resource Allocation: Resource allocation and time management are easier since
project phases are distinct and non-overlapping.
 4. Quality Control:
 Thorough Testing: Testing is conducted after the implementation phase, allowing for
comprehensive verification and validation of the entire system.
 Early Identification of Issues: Issues can be identified early in the development
lifecycle during the design and requirement phases, reducing the likelihood of major
problems later.

5. Better for Certain Project Types:

 Projects with Fixed Requirements: The waterfall method can be more efficient for
projects with well-known, stable, and unchanging requirements.
 Regulated Industries: Industries like construction, manufacturing, and certain
government projects that require stringent documentation and adherence to protocols
often benefit from the waterfall approach.
 Large, Complex Projects: Large projects with complex interdependencies and a need
for comprehensive documentation can benefit from the structured approach of the
waterfall method.

6. Client Expectations:
 Clear Expectations: Clients who prefer a fixed scope and timeline might favor the
waterfall method as it provides clear expectations for deliverables, deadlines, and
costs.

7. Ease of Transition and Maintenance:

 New Team Members: Extensive documentation makes it easier for new team
members to understand the project's scope and progress.
 Maintenance and Upgrades: Clear documentation and structured phases facilitate
understanding the system during maintenance and future upgrades.

The Waterfall Model is a sequential software development methodology with distinct phases:
requirement analysis, system design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance.
Each phase must be completed before proceeding to the next, resembling a downward flow
like a waterfall. It emphasizes structured planning and documentation, ensuring clarity and
manageability. However, its rigidity can hinder adaptation to changing requirements mid-
project, making it less suitable for dynamic environments. Despite these limitations, the
Waterfall Model remains foundational, emphasizing disciplined processes and thorough
documentation in software development.
Problem Statement:
Application of the Waterfall Model for Developing the many
transaction management in Google Pay

Objective:
The objective of applying the Waterfall Model in the development of the transaction
management system in Google Pay is to systematically plan, design, implement, test, and
deploy a robust, secure, and efficient system that can handle a high volume of financial
transactions reliably and accurately. This objective is aimed at ensuring that the system meets
all specified requirements and provides a seamless user experience, minimizing errors and
ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

Scope:
This case study focuses on leveraging the Waterfall Model to systematically develop a
transaction management system tailored for Google Pay. The scope encompasses a structured
approach across distinct phases
The goals of applying the Waterfall Model in developing the transaction management system
for Google Pay are to ensure systematic planning, meticulous design, and robust
implementation of a secure and efficient system. This approach aims to handle high
transaction volumes reliably, comply with financial regulations, and deliver a seamless user
experience, thereby enhancing trust and satisfaction among Google Pay users.
Developing a transaction management system for Google Pay using the
Waterfall model involves several structured phases.
Here’s a breakdown of how you might approach this:

Requirements Gathering:
Work closely with stakeholders, including the Google Pay team, end-users, and regulatory
bodies, to gather detailed requirements for the transaction management system. Key
functionalities to define include transaction recording mechanisms, robust security protocols,
intuitive user interfaces, and compliance with regulatory standards. Engage in workshops,
interviews, and surveys to ensure all stakeholders' needs and expectations are captured
accurately.

System Design:
Create a comprehensive design document that serves as a blueprint for the system
architecture. This involves designing the database schema to efficiently store transaction data,
specifying interfaces for seamless interaction between system components, and outlining the
data flow to ensure smooth processing from initiation to completion of transactions. Consider
scalability, reliability, and performance optimizations during this phase.

Implementation:
Translate the design specifications into code. Develop user interfaces that are intuitive and
responsive, implement backend processing logic for transaction handling and business rules
enforcement, establish secure database interactions to safeguard sensitive information, and
integrate robust security features to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches.

Testing:
Conduct rigorous testing to validate the system's functionality and reliability. Start with unit
testing to verify individual components, proceed to integration testing to ensure seamless
interaction between modules, and conduct system testing to validate end-to-end scenarios.
Perform performance testing to assess system responsiveness under varying loads and
security testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Deployment:
Prepare for deployment into the Google Pay environment once testing confirms stability and
functionality. This involves setting up servers that meet performance requirements,
configuring databases for optimal performance and data integrity, and implementing stringent
security measures such as encryption and access controls to protect transaction data in transit
and at rest.
Maintenance:
Provide ongoing support and maintenance to ensure the system operates smoothly post-
deployment. This includes promptly addressing and resolving any bugs or issues that arise,
monitoring system performance to identify and address bottlenecks, and implementing
updates to accommodate evolving requirements or advancements in technology. Regularly
conduct security audits and updates to mitigate potential risks and ensure compliance with
regulatory standards.

Advantages of waterfall model:

The advantages of waterfall development are that it allows for departmentalization and
control. A schedule can be set with deadlines for each stage of development and a product can
proceed through the development process model phases one by one.
Development moves from concept, through design, implementation, testing, installation,
troubleshooting, and ends up at operation and maintenance. Each phase of development
proceeds in strict order.
Some of the major advantages of the Waterfall Model are as follows −
 Simple and easy to understand and use
 Easy to manage due to the rigidity of the model. Each phase has specific deliverables
and a review process.
 Phases are processed and completed one at a time.
 Works well for smaller projects where requirements are very well understood.
 Clearly defined stages.
 Well understood milestones.
 Easy to arrange tasks.
 Process and results are well documented.

Disadvantages of waterfall model:

The disadvantage of waterfall development is that it does not allow much reflection or
revision. Once an application is in the testing stage, it is very difficult to go back and change
something that was not well-documented or thought upon in the concept stage.
The major disadvantages of the Waterfall Model are as follows −
 No working software is produced until late during the life cycle.
 High amounts of risk and uncertainty.
 Not a good model for complex and object-oriented projects.
 Poor model for long and ongoing projects.
 Not suitable for the projects where requirements are at a moderate to high risk of
changing. So, risk and uncertainty is high with this process model.
 It is difficult to measure progress within stages.
 Cannot accommodate changing requirements.
 Adjusting scope during the life cycle can end a project.
Conclusion
The Waterfall Model offers a structured and systematic approach to developing a Money
Transaction Management System. By following a sequential process, the project ensures clear
documentation, well-defined phases, and thorough testing, resulting in a robust and reliable
system. This model is particularly suitable for projects with well-understood requirements
and minimal expected changes.