Rolling Wave Planning is an iterative planning technique in which the work to be accomplished in the near term is planned in detail, while the work in the future is planned at a higher level.
This approach allows project teams to refine planning as more information becomes available, enabling flexibility while maintaining strategic direction.
Key Characteristics
- Detail Increases Over Time – Near-term work is fully defined; future work is progressively elaborated
- Supports Uncertainty – Useful when scope or requirements are not fully known at the outset
- Iterative and Adaptive – Planning cycles occur repeatedly as the project progresses
- Schedule-Driven – Aligned with the timing of work execution
Example Scenarios
- Planning only the next two sprints in detail while maintaining a high-level backlog
- Defining requirements for early-phase construction while later phases remain conceptual
- Developing a software release plan where later features are scoped broadly but not designed
Role in Project Scheduling and Scope Definition
- Improves Planning Accuracy – Allows just-in-time detailing based on current knowledge
- Reduces Rework – Avoids premature detailing of uncertain future work
- Aligns with Agile and Hybrid Methods – Compatible with incremental delivery models
- Supports Progressive Elaboration – Expands on scope and schedule as clarity improves
See also: Progressive Elaboration, Schedule Management Plan, Work Breakdown Structure, Iteration Planning, Scope Baseline.