Our reporting and project management procedures include Critical Path Analysis. This is an extremely effective method of analyzing and managing a sophisticated engagement. It helps us to work with our clients to calculate the minimum length of time in which key project components can be completed, and which activities should be prioritized to be completed by any specific date. Where a job has to be completed on time, critical path analysis helps us to focus on the essential activities to which attention and resources should be devoted. It gives an effective basis for the scheduling and monitoring of progress.
Our work process methodology includes our proprietary Development Matrix. This methodology is important to our quality control and process improvement initiatives. The approach and methodology used to address client technology needs is comprehensive and effective.
The following outlines our systematic methodology:
REQUIREMENTS STAGE
The requirement stage consists of four different steps. First, the Discovery step involves getting to know the unique situation of the client. It is important to address what it is that the client is trying to accomplish, or what is the end goal. This helps develop the next step, the Business Case Analysis, which is a comprehensive analysis of workflow procedures within the organization at the present time, and what would make the business process more effective. Following the Business Case Analysis, a preliminary Design of the new system can be developed that would fall in line with the client’s end goal. A Recommendation Report of what software would fit the needs of the client based upon desired procedures and workflow would then be submitted to the client.
IMPLEMENTATION
After the Recommendation Report has been reviewed and discussed by the client, we would then proceed with the software choice of the client. The installation of the new product would require walking through different set-ups and options available to the client by the specific software. In the event that the software does not meet a specific need of the client, we could then develop modifications within the software or use external workarounds. As we work through the installation, we begin the training of users. It is essential to include the users in the set-up and installation process to insure satisfaction of the entire process. Formalized training sessions could also be set-up to reach a larger audience of users. Customized training could be developed for each unique client based upon preset training templates. A Project Completion report would follow the completion of the Implementation stage outlining specific set-up choices of the client along with any modifications.
MONITOR
Monitoring involves continuous training of the client along with software support. We could also assist the client with additional enhancements to the system as needed. The monitoring of the client and their system allows for us to continually be in contact with the client and keep them up to date on system enhancements made by the manufacturer of the product. Formal Evaluation Reports can be conducted to measure the effectiveness of the implementation and the implementation team.
OUR IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
Although life-cycle consulting services can be unpredictable, our Project Management System ensures a smooth process and a seamless fit with your existing efforts. Beyond solving problems, we look for creative opportunities that will help our clients to serve their customers and to distinguish themselves from the competition. Our Project Management System reduces risk to our clients because we identify potential risks early on—and neutralize them, and we implement our solutions in stages, so that we can fine-tune the system as we go along.
Our approach to engagements uses a structure consistent with that of larger professional services firms. The work is divided into several stages whereby the focus of the professionals changes to the relative critical goals inherent to those stages.
The four phases of our work are:
- Familiarization
- Fact-finding
- Implementation
- Evaluation
The Familiarization phase occurs after the initial contact is made but before the work commences. The tasks required in this phase are usually very similar on each engagement. It includes research and dissemination of information regarding the client, the industry in which they operate, and an update on technology that is expected to be utilized.
The Fact-finding phase involves the accumulation of all available data and the making of conceptual decisions regarding the issues at hand, the parameters involved including time and budget constraints, and the scheduling of activities. This phase often becomes a formalized Requirements process in which our engagement team performs a technical review and documentation of the clients information technology systems, desires, and obstacles. Surveys, interviews, and observation play paramount roles in completing this phase.
The Implementation phase begins with the preparation of a project plan which is always based upon the findings of the formalized Requirements process when applicable. Solution and work-product design, development, testing, and process or system roll-out then occurs based upon the time requirements to complete. The exchange of information between the engagement team and our clients is at its highest level during this phase. A continual review of the goals and directions of our work product is continually monitored to ensure a solutions that meets all of our client’s needs – both anticipated and unexpected.
The final phase of Evaluation includes the survey and review of the work product as well as the performance of the engagement team throughout the project. The work product and issues are documented, organized, and disseminated as appropriate. This process ensures proper recordkeeping assurances as well as a sharing of knowledge amongst the team. The review of performance and support of the solution to the client during this phase relies upon accurate and extensive records of work performed.
