Incremental Approach

An incremental approach delivers a product in successive pieces (increments), each adding usable functionality, until the whole is complete. Rather than releasing everything at the end, the team hands over working parts along the way, so value and feedback arrive earlier.

Incremental delivery is often combined with an iterative approach: iterating refines each piece, while incrementing adds new ones. The PMBOK Guide (8th edition) presents both as development approaches suited to projects where early, partial delivery is valuable.

Related: iterative approach, adaptive approach, minimum viable product.

Last updated: 4 July 2026 · By Tom, PMP-certified since 2004

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