Implementation Methodology

A hybrid approach offering a high quality, cost effective and fast implementation.

Agile or Waterfall?
We offer the best of both worlds.

For years, Project Management experts have been divided following the Agile or the Waterfall methodology. Proponents from each generally praise their chosen methodology’s advantages but all too often neglect to mention the shortfalls.

At Optimum.consulting, we acknowledge that both methodologies have their strengths and weaknesses. As a result, we adopted a hybrid model to provide clients with the very best of both worlds. In addition, we work closely with clients to ensure that they are confident in taking ownership. We do so by encouraging participation from the start and throughout the entire implementation.

Combined with thorough testing and continual data migration cycles, we provide clients with the best possible solution for their business using the quickest and most cost-effective methods.

Delivery Methodology

Agile vs Waterfall: client involvement and visibility

Agile

Originally created for product / software development.


Breaks up the work into smaller and more manageable parts (Sprints):

  • All work (analysis, design, development, testing, bug-fixing, release) happens within a Sprint.
  • Fixed duration: 2-4 weeks.

Faster visible results.


Not suitable for large complex system implementations with multiple process and system dependencies.

Optimum.consulting

Shorter analysis stage:

  • Focuses on the critical business processes.
  • Design is done in the system: Client users are involved hands-on using the product.

Breaks up the tasks into smaller and more manageable parts

  • Iterations.
  • Multiple Sprints:
    • Sprints are Process-driven.
    • Data Migration Sprints.
    • Reporting.
    • Test Cases.

More manageable deliverables


Integrated Design and Development

  • Less customisation decisions up front.
  • Customisation decisions are made after testing and with use of the customer data (Development only where necessary).

Waterfall

Originally created for large system implementations.


Longer analysis stage:

  • More in-depth analysis.
  • Identifies all the gaps and customisations needed.
  • Design is done “on paper”, without hands-on experience by the client.

Design decisions are made on subset of data and not an end-to-end business process list and exercise.


Delay of user hands-on involvement, until Design and Development is completed.


Potential for requirements to be missed until after design begins.


Reduced flexibility as project enters development phase.

Delivery Methodology

Optimisation of operations using best practices.

  • Focuses on Business Process Design instead of pure system implementation.
  • Based on best-in-class business processes and performance metrics (APQC, Microsoft and Optimum).
PROJECT PROGRAMME

Project Initiation

Setting the project up for success through initial planning and tools setup (e.g., Microsoft Azure DevOps, communication, etc).

Milestone ownership Optimum

Analyse

High level scope definition at Business Process List level and requirements gathering. Define out-of-the-box requirements and which require customisation or process change.

Milestone ownership Optimum

Design & Develop

Start iteration process with basic setup and data migration iteration. Following iterations are formed around Business Processes and involve design, unit testing, and client playback for sign off.

Milestone ownership Transition of Ownership

Deploy

End to end User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and production readiness.

Milestone ownership Client

Optimise

Post Go Live Support and transitioning to Optimum.consulting Support Team.

Milestone ownership Client

“When it comes to working with clients, initially, we are in the driver seat and they are the co-drivers. Our objective is to empower them and help clients jump into the driver’s seat as quickly as possible.”

“Achieving results. Empowering clients.”

Nicola Channell
Senior Manager / Project Manager

For me, there’s nothing better than seeing clients achieve the result they want whilst also feeling empowered to take ownership of their system.

I love working with clients and Optimum.consulting’s team of experts towards accomplishing that goal.

Contact me
HOW CAN WE HELP?

Get in touch with us today...

We are ready to help you spot opportunities and realise potential with Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Apps.

We help clients in many ways like:

  • Brainstorming how to accelerate your business strategy.
  • Discussing problems, you need to remedy – urgently!
  • Scoping and delivery a Proof of Concept to evaluate if Microsoft Dynamics 365 is right for you.
  • Finding a suitable implementation partner.
  • Having a coffee on us to discuss your needs.
Find out more