Applying UML and Patterns: An Introduction to Object-Oriented Analysis and Design and the Unified Process, Second Edition

36.3. Adaptive vs. Predictive Planning

One of the big ideas of iterative development is to adapt based on feedback, rather than to attempt to predict and plan in detail the entire project. Consequently, in the UP, one creates an Iteration Plan for only the next iteration. Beyond the next iteration the detailed plan is left open, to adaptively adjust as the future unfolds (see Figure 36.1). In addition to encouraging flexible, opportunistic behavior, one simple reason for not planning the entire project in detail is that in iterative development not all the requirements, design details, and thus steps are known near the start of the project.^[1] Another is the preference to trust the planning judgement of the team as they proceed. Finally, suppose ...