Rolling wave planning is a technique that involves iteratively planning and elaborating on project details in progressive waves or phases. It acknowledges that project plans, particularly those for the distant future, are subject to change and uncertainty. Therefore, detailed planning is concentrated on the immediate or near-term work, while planning for future periods is done at a higher level, with more detail added as the project progresses and more information becomes available.

Essentially, it’s about planning in stages, with each stage refining the plan for the next. This allows for flexibility and adaptation to changes, which is crucial in dynamic project environments.