Implementation Methodology

10 Step Plan

To gain maximum benefit from any investment in business software, it needs to be configured to your own business environment and unique ways of working.

As part of our consultancy service, we carefully analyse your existing business activities, using this information to shape your new solution until it provides the best fit possible. This process is controlled using a proven and highly dependable framework: the 10 Step Implementation Plan. By agreeing in advance the path implementation will take, and the precise ways in which the solution will be moulded, we can ensure that the project is delivered on time and within budget. There is no better way of realising the true potential of your new solution, or of building confidence in its ability to transform your business processes.

1 Project Initiation & Planning

The project is officially started and a project team is formed, drawn from the Access consultancy team and your own business representatives. An implementation methodology is agreed, key objectives are documented and project managers are appointed. A 'Project Definition' is produced, as a guideline for the entire implementation.

2 Business Process Mapping

Your current business processes are examined, combined with any recommended improvements and translated into a Business Mapping Document. This information is then fed into a System Design Document, which describes how the new system will be configured and used (both documents can be amended as the project advances).

3 System Build

Following the Business Process Mapping step, an initial design is produced and a pilot database is constructed. Existing data is automatically imported from your legacy systems, or re-entered as necessary. The process of customisation begins, as individual reports and screens are configured to your own requirements.

4 Initial Project Team Training

This initial training programme covers the main areas of the software you will use (including its scope and terminology), together with routine systems administration and the principles of report writing. Specialised training, on individual business processes, may be carried out later.

5 Installation

Standard software is installed and the process of fine-tuning the entire system to your precise requirements enters its second phase. A demonstration database is set up (using real business data wherever possible) and reliable back-up procedures are put in place, in anticipation of going live.

6 Pilot & System Configuration

Your project team pilots the software within your own business. Typical transactions are carried out, and the results used to refine your agreed business processes and key business documents. Reports are carefully tailored and final adjustments made in line with the System Design Document. Your system is now configured for day to day operation.

7 End-User Training

With full deployment approaching, the next priority is end user training. And the objectives are clear: to ensure immediate acceptance of the new system, and to give regular users real confidence in every aspect of its operation. Staff can be trained individually or in a classroom environment, and a full set of procedures is created for reference purposes.

8 Go-Live Preparation

At every step, existing data is imported from your legacy systems into your Access solution. A number of routines are used to make this process as seamless and secure as possible. Shortly before going live, your users test the system to ensure it meets expectations, and the accuracy and integrity of your existing data is verified for the final time.

9 Live Running

Full support is provided as you switch over from your old system and commence live operation of your Access solution. Steps 1 – 8 ensure that the new system can be actively used within your business, without the need for expensive parallel running. Once you are live, after care commences with a formal hand-over to our Customer Services team.

10 Post-Implementation Review

A formal and comprehensive review of the project is undertaken several weeks after going live. This review covers feedback from your users and your project team. If the system needs to be adjusted in any way, or additional modules and services are required, necessary changes will be discussed and agreed.