Which project life cycle is characterized as being fully plan-driven?

The project life cycle characterized as being fully plan-driven is the predictive life cycle. In this approach, extensive planning is conducted before any work begins. This means that project objectives, scope, timelines, and requirements are clearly defined at the outset. A rigorous plan is developed, and subsequent project phases follow a sequential progression based on that initial plan. Changes or adjustments to the plan are generally limited once the execution begins, which contrasts with more flexible methodologies.

Predictive life cycles are often used in projects where the scope and requirements are well understood and unlikely to change, allowing for meticulous upfront planning. This is especially relevant in industries such as construction or healthcare, where regulatory considerations necessitate a clear and detailed plan to meet compliance and safety standards.

In contrast, methodologies like Agile emphasize adaptability and iterative processes rather than a fixed plan, allowing for continuous feedback and adjustments as the project evolves. Similarly, iterative and incremental approaches focus on building deliverables in segments, where the overall plan may evolve throughout the project lifecycle rather than being strictly defined at the beginning, as is the case in the predictive life cycle.