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What is Incremental Planning?

Published in Planning Methodology 4 mins read

Incremental planning is a strategic approach that breaks planning processes into small, manageable chunks, in stark contrast to the larger, more extensive efforts typically associated with comprehensive plans or general plans. It's an iterative and adaptive method that emphasizes making small, continuous adjustments and improvements over time, rather than attempting to design a complete, rigid plan from the outset.


Understanding Incremental Planning

At its core, incremental planning is about taking one step at a time. Instead of crafting a grand, long-term blueprint that anticipates every possible future scenario, this method focuses on defining immediate, achievable objectives and then iteratively building upon them. This approach allows organizations and individuals to remain flexible, learn from each phase, and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

Key Characteristics

Incremental planning is defined by several distinguishing features that set it apart:

  • Small, Manageable Chunks: The planning process is divided into smaller, more digestible segments, making it less overwhelming and easier to execute.
  • Iterative Cycles: Planning, execution, and review occur in repetitive cycles, with each cycle building on the insights gained from the previous one.
  • Flexibility and Adaptability: It readily accommodates changes in goals, resources, or the environment, as adjustments can be made at the end of each small chunk.
  • Continuous Learning: Feedback loops are integral, allowing for constant learning and refinement throughout the project or process lifecycle.
  • Reduced Risk: By investing in smaller increments, the overall risk is lowered. If a particular chunk doesn't yield the desired results, it's easier to pivot or correct course without significant loss.
  • Faster Feedback and Results: Because goals are smaller, progress can be seen and evaluated more quickly, leading to faster feedback and demonstrable results.

Incremental vs. Comprehensive Planning

To fully grasp incremental planning, it's helpful to contrast it with comprehensive or traditional planning methods.

Feature Incremental Planning Comprehensive/Traditional Planning
Scope of Plan Focuses on small, immediate chunks Large-scale, holistic, long-term
Flexibility High; easily adapts to changes Low; often rigid once set
Risk Lower; small investments, easier to course-correct Higher; large upfront investment
Feedback Loop Frequent and rapid Infrequent, typically at major milestones or end of project
Timeframe Shorter cycles, continuous evolution Longer, fixed timelines
Approach Adaptive, "learn-as-you-go" Predictive, "plan-it-all-out"
Starting Point Often begins with current reality, small changes Often from a blank slate, ideal future

Practical Applications and Examples

Incremental planning is widely applicable across various domains due to its inherent adaptability and efficiency.

Where is it Used?

  • Software Development: Methodologies like Agile and Scrum are prime examples of incremental planning, where software is developed in short sprints (chunks) with continuous feedback.
  • Project Management: Complex projects can be broken down into smaller phases, allowing teams to deliver value incrementally and respond to evolving requirements.
  • Urban Planning: City development often proceeds incrementally, with specific districts or infrastructure projects being planned and built in stages rather than attempting to overhaul an entire city simultaneously.
  • Policy Making: Governments often adopt an incremental approach to policy changes, making small adjustments to existing policies rather than enacting drastic reforms. This is sometimes referred to as "muddling through."
  • Product Development: New products or features can be rolled out in phases (e.g., Minimum Viable Product - MVP), allowing for market feedback and iterative improvements.

Benefits in Practice

  • Reduced Overwhelm: Large tasks become less daunting when broken into smaller parts.
  • Enhanced Buy-in: Stakeholders can see progress more quickly, fostering greater engagement and support.
  • Improved Quality: Continuous testing and feedback loops lead to higher quality outcomes.
  • Resource Optimization: Resources can be allocated more efficiently based on immediate needs and learned insights.

Implementing Incremental Planning

While the exact steps may vary, a common iterative process for incremental planning involves:

  1. Define a Small Goal: Identify the next small, achievable step or increment.
  2. Plan the Increment: Detail the tasks, resources, and timeline required for this specific chunk.
  3. Execute: Implement the planned chunk.
  4. Review and Learn: Evaluate the results, gather feedback, and identify lessons learned.
  5. Adapt and Repeat: Adjust the overall strategy or the next increment based on the review, and then repeat the process.

This cyclical approach ensures that planning is an ongoing, dynamic activity, deeply integrated with execution and learning.