In project management, there has to be a system that should be modeled on to prevent loss of control and directive for a particular project. Without such, there is the possibility that a project will not turn out as well as planned. The Spiral Model, which is targeted towards big projects, functions by micro-management. It divides these projects into smaller clusters thus making it easier for the team to reduce risks and problems that may occur.
The Spiral Model evolves like a spiral; it begins at the core of the project and traverses towards each phase, rapidly evolving and creating iterations for workable processes. This is a continuous flow until each of the process gets better and better. It is a repetitive structure that allows for the development of calculated steps to significantly reduce the areas for errors.
The Spiral Model phases
There are four phases included in the Spiral Model and these are: planning, risk-analysis, implementation and evaluation.
- Planning: This phase involves setting objectives, expectations and possible problems that may be encountered during the course of the project. In this model, it is necessary to look into all issues and strategies first before a particular method is going to be used.
- Risk-analysis: Since the Spiral Model is employed mainly to lessen the risks involved in a particular project, it is very keen on checking these possibilities. Every alternative towards reducing costs and problems are always addressed, and made sure that those which can significantly reduce risks will be duplicated.
- Implementation: This is when the project is carried out, through constant improvisation of iterations. Such iterations are particularly evident during this phase in order to ensure that only the best practices will be used.
- Evaluation: This is more of an assessment being conducted by selected participants such as customers and even project team members to check if the strategies and methods used were effective, and if not, modifications will be made so that better systems can be implemented.
The advantages of the Spiral Model
Iteration, which is the most significant process in the Spiral Model, allows project managers to create a better-suited and more relevant model for a certain project. With the identification of risks that may be involved during the phases, it will be easier to determine possible problems. It is also effective at analyzing costs and setting limits, such as in criteria. Moreover, it allows constant changes in the course of the project so adaptability is fairly easy to do. Thus, if the Spiral Model is being used correctly, risks would be greatly reduced and consequently, cost of project in terms of time and money will also be minimized.
The disadvantages of the Spiral Model
Perhaps, the only disadvantage of the Spiral Model is that it requires highly skilled professionals to be able to carry out a project using this model. This is because as changes and iterations are commonly encountered during the entire course, it would be necessary for project team members to know what to do when adjustments and alterations on the project take place. Otherwise, the project may go awry, and the desired results will not be carried out.
With the success of a project largely dependent on the ability of the project team to accurately analyze the risks involved, it would really be important that you put in people who are qualified for the job. Additionally, it is normal for new technologies to be introduced and utilized when using the Spiral Model. As it is, this model functions primarily to create and duplicate better ways to reduce cost and prototyping effective processes.
Any business can make use of the Spiral Model to complete a project. However, before doing so, it would be best to think carefully on whether this model is the best choice for you or not. If the project is large and sophisticated, and a well-experienced project team is available, then this might just be the perfect model to use. Though the processes are quite challenging, it is without doubt one of the most effective systems that companies have employed to counter needless expenses and highly preventable problems common in every high profile task. As a forefront risk-reducer, the Spiral Model would definitely be the best option for expensive and advanced projects.
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