Quick answer
Predictive plans everything upfront (fixed scope, baseline control); adaptive plans iteratively (variable scope, value control) — the PMI framing of the waterfall-vs-agile axis.
Predictive
Full planning first, baselines guard it, changes through control — right when the destination is known.
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Adaptive
Iterative increments, backlog reprioritized, change embraced — right when learning shapes the destination.
In PMBOK
Predictive = traditional lifecycle; adaptive = agile/iterative/incremental lifecycles — the vocabulary for choosing.
The hybrid middle
Adaptive inside, predictive outside — the default of complex real projects.
Bottom line
Predictive plans everything upfront (fixed scope, baseline control); adaptive plans iteratively (variable scope, value control) — the PMI framing of the waterfall-vs-agile axis.
FAQ
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