Which software development methodology emphasizes iterative development and collaboration?

The Agile methodology is characterized by its emphasis on iterative development and collaboration among cross-functional teams. In Agile, projects are broken down into small, manageable increments called iterations or sprints, which typically last a few weeks. This approach allows teams to respond to changes quickly and involves continuous feedback from stakeholders, ensuring that the final product meets user needs more effectively.

Agile promotes close collaboration between developers and business representatives throughout the development process. This close relationship helps ensure alignment with the project vision and objectives, allowing for adjustments as necessary based on stakeholder input. The Agile mindset fosters a culture of adaptability and empowers teams to innovate and solve problems collaboratively, which is crucial in dynamic environments like software development.

In contrast, methodologies like Waterfall and V-model follow a more linear and sequential approach, which can be less flexible in accommodating changes after the initial phases. The Spiral model, while iterative, primarily focuses on risk assessment and management rather than the collaborative aspects that are central to Agile. Thus, Agile stands out as the methodology that best embodies iterative development and teamwork.