In which software development approach does one stage depend entirely on the completion of the previous stage?

The Waterfall system development model is characterized by a linear and sequential design process, where each stage of development must be completed before the next stage begins. This model emphasizes a structured approach, where requirements are gathered at the beginning, and each step—such as design, implementation, testing, and maintenance—follows logically from the one before it. As a result, the success and progress of subsequent stages depend entirely on the successful completion of the earlier stages.

This model is particularly useful in projects where requirements are well understood and unlikely to change during the development process. The distinct phases in the Waterfall model ensure that the project can be thoroughly documented and that each phase is built upon the solid foundation established by previous phases. This quality makes it an effective method for projects requiring predictability and control over the development lifecycle.