Project success depends on the quality of analysis and planning, supported by adherence to a proven implementation methodology, and executed by an experienced team with a client-centric philosophy.
Overview
The CBSi team is an effective combination of experienced & certified technical, business, and accounting professionals focused on providing a complete solution to your business objectives, rather than just replacing your current system. Our execution of a thorough step-by-step methodology ensures your objectives will be achieved in a timely and cost effective manner.
While going through this process and conceptualizing various approaches to achieve your goals, we evaluate the factors that generated the need for a new system in the first place. We look at what you initially are trying to achieve, but also whether we can easily achieve an even greater vision while we are at it.
We are dedicated to guiding and supporting you through the transition to your new software, as well as supporting you after deployment. Your participation and dedication are also vital to the success of your implementation project, so we provide realistic expectations during the kickoff meeting to give you a clear understanding of the process.
The following is a high level overview of the key phases of the process:
Analysis Phase
In the Analysis Phase, the current state of your business is carefully investigated and goals are established, adding to our knowledge of your business which we gathered during the sales process.
At the beginning of this phase, our project teams will collaborate in presenting a kick-off meeting where we will provide executive stakeholders an overview of the project vision, scope, objectives, key performance indicators (KPIs), and benefits. We achieve agreement, or revise our understanding as necessary. Key roles are assigned and reporting and approval guidelines are confirmed.
Following the kickoff, the teams prepare the project schedule, and assign responsibilities. The first of a series of discovery meetings begins as we will proceed to learn your current business processes in detail, and learn more detail about your vision for the future.
Design Phase
The Design Phase starts with the CBSi team developing a concept for your solution based on the information gathered during the Analysis Phase. If any “Gaps” have been identified between your requirements and the software’s out-of-the-box functionality, we recommend solutions for your approval.
The software is jointly configured during this phase for your specific business requirements. Relevant key users will be involved during system configuration as this will heighten their understanding and enable meaningful discussion both of your business and the implementation setup tasks. Data is mapped for migration from your legacy system to the new, and key users will also be involved in the data migration and validation.
Development Phase
Custom extends functionality beyond standard out-of-the-box boundaries. Over the years, CBSi has developed thousands of custom modifications and solutions. This experience forms a solid knowledge and information base allowing CBSi to reduce delivery time, and assure the quality of the final product.
The Development Phase starts with JAD (Joint Application Design) sessions where our product specialists and your key users jointly develop future functionality and desired workflow. This follows with the creation of end-user and technical design specifications and continuing through custom functionality development and testing, initially by us, followed by relevant key user(s).
Another phase of development is involved data migration from the existing system and integration with other applications, if needed.
Deployment Phase
The Deployment Phase includes Solution Testing, end user training, and “go live”. Your involvement in this phase is critical to your NAV project’s success. During Solution Testing we walk through your processes and test modifications and data conversion to ensure all your needs are met, and transactions are flowing properly. Once you are comfortable that all processes are correct, we schedule end user training to occur shortly before “go live”.
A business “go/no-go” decision is made on whether to proceed with the go-live as scheduled or defer until any critical issues or training concerns are resolved. When approved, you are set to “go live”, usually effective as of the beginning of the fiscal period of your choice. Some companies may want to run the new and old systems in parallel at this point.
Cross Phase Project Management, Training, and Support
Across all phases of your project, CBSi provides project management to keep your project on track and on budget.
CBSi provides you with training across all phases beginning in the Analysis Phase where we demonstrate how to achieve your objectives using the new software. Training continues with key users as we work side by side to configure the software and perform solution testing. Shortly before “go live”, end users are trained in either classroom or on-site training sessions.
Operation Phase
Ongoing support during daily operation should be an integral part of any comprehensive solution. CBSi works closely with you to provide comprehensive ongoing support programs that meet your various needs. We offer on-site live, phone, remote on-line and email support according to your preferences.
Periodic reviews are scheduled to help assure you are getting the most out of your new software solution, to adapt to new requirements, and to take advantage of new opportunities.
