Each project is different, however, an implementation of a sophisticated system generally follows well-structured and practised steps:

  • Needs Analysis
    • Start from an existing requirements document or create a new one
  • Workshops
    • Collect input from all stakeholders
    • Review & validate requirements statements
  • Reference Visits
    • Get ideas from how other organisations are doing it
    • Make important network connections that will become useful during later implementation stages
  • Visual Prototype
    • There is value in the old maxim 'a picture is worth a thousand words'
    • Early exposure to a visual mock-up can be valuable in driving development in the right direction
  • Functional Prototype
    • The next stage puts a working system in the hands of users
    • Feedback here can eliminate costly mistakes
    • Users involved in this stage of review often become extremely bought in to the process and ambassadors for the completed solution
  • Pilots
    • Useful to test the completed solution in a working environment prior to abandoning old practises
    • Fine tuning of the software can be made at this stage
    • Increases user buy-in even further
    • Smooths the training load on the organisation as new users gain expertise and can pass this onto others
  • Project Management
    • Vital throughout the process to ensure timely, efficient and cost-effective delivery
    • Project Managers on both sides of the supplier/customer partnership working together
    • Regular reviews and progress reports
    • Issues raised and resolved early on in the process