Simulating the Waterfall Model: A Systematic Review

2025-06-24

AI Summary

This study addresses the lack of systematic analysis of waterfall model applications in computational simulation practices within academic research. We conduct a systematic mapping study of literature published between 2000 and 2024. For the first time, we analyze studies along four dimensions: simulation methodology (e.g., discrete-event simulation, system dynamics), tooling platforms (e.g., Simphony.NET, SimPy), geographical distribution, and model fidelity. Our analysis identifies 68 empirical studies and reveals three key findings: (1) none fully replicate Royce’s original seven-stage waterfall model; (2) proprietary platforms are increasingly supplanted by open-source Python-based tools; and (3) although marginalized as a standalone paradigm, the waterfall model exhibits adaptive evolution within hybrid development approaches. The study elucidates its persistent influence and transformation pathways, establishing a novel methodological benchmark for simulation-based software engineering research.

Technology Category

• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Simulating Human Behavior
• Search and Optimization: Sampling/Simulation-based Search
• Multiagent Systems: Agent-Based Simulation and Emergent Behavior

Application Category

• User Modeling, Personalization and Recommendation: User modeling and simulation for interactive and conversational systems
• Web Mining and Content Analysis: Web data generation and simulation
• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Web performance, measurement, and characterization

Abstract

This systematic mapping study examines how the Waterfall Model has been represented in computational simulations within peer-reviewed literature. While Agile methodologies dominate contemporary software design practices, the Waterfall Model persists, particularly, within hybrid approaches that fuse structured, sequential workflows with the adaptability of agile practices. Despite its continued presence, little attention has been given to how the Waterfall Model is simulated in research contexts. A structured search of major academic databases identified 68 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. After applying inclusion criteria, selected studies were analyzed across four dimensions: (1) simulation methodologies (e.g., discrete-event simulation, system dynamics), (2) platforms and tools (e.g., Simphony.NET, SimPy), (3) geographic and temporal trends, and (4) fidelity to Royce's original seven-phase model. Discrete-event simulation was most commonly used, reflecting the model's sequential nature. Early work relied on proprietary platforms, while recent studies increasingly use open-source, Python-based tools. No studies fully implemented Royce's original formulation, most employed adaptations. These findings suggest that although niche, simulation of the Waterfall Model is present in academic discourse. This work highlights the need for accessible modeling tools and calls for future research that integrates the waterfall software process model with modern hybrid practices.

Problem

• Examining Waterfall Model representation in computational simulations
• Analyzing simulation methodologies and tools for Waterfall Model
• Assessing fidelity to Royce's original seven-phase model

Innovation

• Discrete-event simulation for sequential workflows
• Open-source Python-based tools adoption
• Hybrid waterfall-agile model adaptations