Conceptual Design Phase

During the conceptual design phase, we help our clients identify the need for a system, which will enhance the ability of the organization to achieve its business objectives. The conceptual design phase determines the appropriate systems solution, defines the basic goals of the system, and defines a high-level project work plan. Together we identify the need for specific systems by analyzing the business needs and goals of the organization. This part of the process involves not only defining your application’s objectives and features, but understanding who your users are and their tasks, intentions, and goals.

Physical Design Phase

The planning phase consists of formulating and formalizing the new system's functional, quality, and architecture requirements, and then designing the system to meet those requirements. We identify and assess the critical system specification issues before actual system development begins. The exact degree of detail should be appropriate for the size, type, and scope of the project.

Development Phase

The development phase occurs after the initial planning phase ends. This phase includes resolving any user design issues and developing the technical, detailed design of each specific program. Once the design is complete, we code individual programs, create conversion files, and thoroughly test the system. In addition, the system is documented and the users are trained. This phase demands constant monitoring from management to control the scope of the project. Scope control is a key technique to reduce the risk of falling behind schedule or exceeding the project budget.

Implementation Phase

The implementation phase begins during the system test component of the development phase. This phase includes preparing the system for implementation, user acceptance testing, and then the actual implementation of the new system. The preparations for implementing the new system can occur at the same time as the system test. Once the users are trained, they can begin the user acceptance test component of this phase. When the system is completely tested and accepted, the actual implementation can take place. The objective of this phase is to first ensure the system satisfies the stated requirements, and then provide an environment that will ensure the system's continued success. Review of system objectives, requirements, plans, and user acceptance and sign-off are crucial throughout the implementation phase.

Post Implementation / System Support Phase

The post implementation/system support phase occurs after the system has been implemented, and continues for the life of the system. This phase includes continuously monitoring, maintaining, and modifying the system to ensure the system performs as expected, and continues to meet the user's dynamic needs. Continuous evaluation helps identify and prevent potential problems, pinpoint where maintenance costs can be minimized, and determine when modification or replacement activities should begin.