What to expect when working with us
With over 30 years of combined experience in the software development industry, we have had plenty of opportunities to refine and polish our approach. Whilst there is no universally perfect method for tackling a software development project, we follow a set of key milestones to guide our process, allowing for flexibility where needed. After all - no two projects are the same so why should the process be?! Here’s what you can generally expect the process to look like when working with us:
The requirements
The first and most crucial step in any collaboration is understanding your requirements. We don’t expect you to provide a fully detailed roadmap from the outset (although we’re more than happy to work with one if you have it). You might come to us with a problem to solve, a KPI to improve or a good old question mark that represents a challenge you need to overcome. Whatever it is, we’ll take the time to sit down and thoroughly understand your needs.
Whether you prefer to meet in person, virtually or at your location - the choice is yours. We’ll engage with everyone involved - from the day to day do'ers to the executive team - ensuring we gather a comprehensive, 360 understanding of the situation. Based on these discussions, we’ll clearly define and agree on the requirements and outputs with you.
The options
Once the requirements are clear, we’ll analyse and evaluate the best options to meet your goals. We work within any constraints you provide including the obvious timelines and/or budget and present you with clear, unbiased choices. As part of this, we’ll conduct a risk analysis of each option, highlighting any potential risks so you can make an informed decision. If necessary, we’ll help write a specification to present to your internal stakeholders meaning you can relax if you have any technical expertise! We’ll also discuss any post delivery needs such as training and support.
The plan
Now for the roadmap. We’ll create a detailed plan that breaks down the project into specific milestones with clear outputs and estimated timeframes for each. We’ll also establish a communication plan and schedule regular touchpoints to ensure ongoing alignment throughout the project. Depending on your preferences, this might be weekly calls, monthly reports, carrier pigeons or something in between.
The delivery
Once the plan is in place, we’ll begin delivering the solution according to the agreed milestones. We’ll work closely with all relevant stakeholders as necessary, keeping you updated and informed in a manner that suits. If any changes or issues arise, we’ll discuss them with you as soon as we possibly can - transparency is key here and the sooner we work through any issues - the better! At the end of each stage we’ll review, tweak as necessary and get your sign off before moving on.
The testing
Before we let your software out into the wild, we put it through the wringer. We conduct rigorous testing, including unit testing, integration testing and user acceptance testing, ensuring the software functions properly and reliably in real world conditions that mirror your environment. Basically, we try to break the software so your users don't have to!
Handing over
What happens after delivery depends on your needs. If training is necessary - whether for new or updated software - we’ll organise and carry out the sessions as agreed. We’ll never close a project until you're 100% satisfied. If you need on going support to keep your software in tip top shape, we can arrange that with you - ad hoc, retainer based or something totally different that suits your specific needs.
Sound good?
Now that you know how we approach projects, why not get in touch to discuss yours? It doesn't matter whether it’s a half formed idea, a full blown plan or a not quite developed thought - we're ready to help you move it forward.