Iterative without incremental is daydreaming. Incremental without iterative is guesswork. Scrum’s power comes from combining the two.
What’s the difference between “iterative” and ”incremental”?
And why does Scrum need both?
Many people use these words interchangeably—but in Scrum, they point to two complementary superpowers.
From the Scrum Guide: “Scrum employs an iterative, incremental approach.”
From Cambridge Dictionary:
- Iterative – doing something again and again, usually to improve it
- Incremental – happening gradually, in a series of small amounts
Iterative in Scrum
Iteration is about learning loops. Doing something again and again, each time improving based on what you learned last time.
In Scrum, the Sprint is the heartbeat of iteration.
Every Sprint:
- You plan together
- You build
- You review
- You reflect and adapt
Then, immediately after one Sprint ends, another begins.
Analysis, design, build, validate, release—done again and again. Each loop is a chance to adapt the plan, the product, and the process.
Incremental in Scrum
Incremental is about delivering in small, usable chunks.
In Scrum, the Increment is the output that adds value to your product—piece by piece, Sprint by Sprint.
- Product capabilities grow gradually
- Users can understand and give feedback on each step
- The way of working improves a little each Sprint
- Skills in the team increase over time
Why both matter?
- Only iterative? You could end up improving the wrong thing forever without ever delivering value.
- Only incremental? You could deliver lots of small pieces without learning if you’re on the right track.
Scrum combines both so you’re constantly learning, and constantly delivering.
Your turn:
- What are you and your team iterating on right now?
- What’s your latest Increment?
Share an example—let’s make it visible.
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
I hope you find value in these short articles and if you are looking for more clarifications, feel free to make contact.
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Wishing you an inspiring read and a wonderful journey.
Scrum on!
