We design, build and deliver high quality information systems using Microsoft and other technologies. We take 5 major steps in every solution we deliver:
The first and most important step in developing any business system is to understand the needs of those people and organizations affected by it - the stakeholders. Actively listening to the various stakeholders to fully understand their viewpoints, wishes and requirements takes energy and a real commitment to excellence. This effort returns dividends as solutions are designed and implemented to more fully deliver value to all affected stakeholders.
This active listening is vital through all phases of the implementation of a successful information system solution, regardless of the size and scope. We strive to interact with everyone involved in the systems ausing concrete examples and prototypes at all phases to improve communications and understanding. The most common questions are "Is this close to what you would like to see?" and "How can this be improved?"
Architecting a solution requires understanding the business goals and needs of the stakeholders. This requires an appreciation for the business and human factors which will affect and be affected by the systems. This step is paramount in creating an excellent solution in that it establishes the framework in which the technologies are applied and development occurs. Creating an architecture requires an understanding of the business and operational needs of the people affected by the planned solution. A good architecture looks beyond just the needs, however. It should anticipate how the needs will evolve over time, how technologies will improve and, most difficult, how improved technologies will affect the clients of the solution. Building an effective architecture results in a true effective and efficient solution that not only works when it is implemented but also does this well into the future.
It is all too common that technical consultants focus on technology at the expense of their customers. Our view is that technology is just a means to an end and that technology should be secondary to the needs and goals of the stakeholders. We have 3 decades of experience with technology and have learned that no technology suits every situation. We have a wide range of technology experience and skills. We select the ones that provide the best way to provide a solution. Being abreast of the latest technologies is great and we are. However, our experience is that using the tried and true technologies are cheaper and more effective for customers in many cases.
We design and build technical solutions that delight the stakeholders. We use the most appropriate tools and interfaces for every situation to reduce both the original and on-going costs for our clients. We employ the best practices in the use of the technologies, most importantly, by actually documenting what we do as a part of the development process.
The final steps are to deliver and evaluate the system that is the solution. We maintain contact with our clients to evaluate the systems delivered to assure that we have exceeded their and their stakeholders' goals. The first and last steps of our process are the two that separate our approach from most software consultancy organizations.
Page last updated on Sunday November 27, 2005