Comprehensive Comparison Between Software
Process Models
This document provides a clear exam-oriented comparison between all major Software Process
Models.
Waterfall V-Model Incremental Prototype Reuse-Oriented Spiral RUP
Plan-driven Plan-driven Agile Evolutionary Reuse-based Risk-driven
Final system at end Early testing Deliver in parts Clarify requirements Reuse components Risk control Ente
Very stable Very stable Mostly stable Unclear Partially flexible Complex
n End only End only Early & continuous Prototype only Early Early increments
Late Early planned Each increment Prototype testing On reused parts Each loop
None Low Medium Low Medium Explicit
Very low Low High High Medium High
Low–Medium Medium Medium Medium Low Very High
en Stable projects Critical systems Agile products Req. unclear Fast dev. High-risk
Quick Exam Notes:
Waterfall → Stable requirements
V-Model → Critical systems + early testing
Incremental → Agile + early delivery
Prototype → Unclear requirements
Reuse-Oriented → Faster & cheaper development
Spiral → High-risk systems
RUP → Large enterprise applications