SELECTING A PROJECT MANAGEMENT APPROACH FOR SMALL ENTERPRISES: AGILE AND WATERFALL EFFECTIVENESS CRITERIA

Abstract

Methodology choice is a decisive factor in the operational efficiency of small enterprises, which have limited room to absorb the cost of a poor fit. This study compares Agile and Waterfall project management on the basis of secondary empirical data and academic literature (2013–2025). Reported success/failure rates are analyzed alongside a criteria- based comparison covering cost predictability, flexibility, documentation, and risk management. Agile shows higher aggregate success rates overall, but the gap narrows sharply at the small -project scale typical of small enterprises, and Waterfall retains advantages where requirements are stable and compliance is required. Methodology selection should therefore be criteria -driven rather than trend-driven.