Software Development Methodology

The art and science of software engineering

Typically customers approach us with some idea or concept of what they want to achieve or have a list of basic requirements. As we specialise only in web application development, we first determine whether web based delivery of the application will in reality meet your basic requirements.

Stakeholder meetings – understanding your business

Once we have established that a web-based application will fulfill your end requirements, we then use our application experience to further identify other business requirements that may affect the application’s functionality, operation or maintenance.

This process is normally conducted in stakeholder workshops, which include all relevant parties who are invested in and who contribute to the project’s end result.

Creative thinking workshops – developing innovative solutions & proactively managing risk

Creativity is essential in developing unique, innovative solutions that cleverly meet your requirements while minimising risk areas.

Once Think Open has conducted the initial stakeholder workshops and meetings, we then conduct a series of creative thinking workshops, as well as additional research.

Together, the creative and research process identifies the technical feasibility and possible technologies, systems, integration and other opportunities available to optimally fulfill your project’s requirements.

Minimising risk and maximising success

Based on our application experience, we will identify any potential risks needing special cognisance during the execution of the project. Software development risks can include:

• Financial risk in terms of incomplete or ambiguous requirements
• Security risk
• Feasibility of functionality required
• Likelihood of user effectively interacting with system
• Risk of application failure due to technical problems
• High maintenance or operation costs
• Application performance risk due to operating conditions or usage requirements
• Time risk – factors influencing ability to deliver objectives on time

Think Open has extensive experience in identifying and dealing with the risk areas associated with software development. You will be informed of the progress of milestones and any necessary changes required will be discussed and clearly communicated.

Designing the architecture – the software development management plan

The next step is to take the findings of the requirements analysis and workshops and design the architecture of the system. In addition a plan is devised to deal with all the challenges and risks identified.

The resulting software development management plan will outline how the project will be conducted and measured. Once a project management plan has been accepted, a project cost can be fixed before the application construction begins.

Implementation – setting the project into motion, keeping you informed of milestones

During the construction phase, the architecture design is implemented in accordance with the software development management plan.

Typically the software development management plan will specify certain key milestones which can be reviewed by all parties involved to track the progress of the project.

Testing – making final improvements to ensure a quality end result

After construction the application testing is usually conducted in partnership with the various stakeholders. Any improvements required will be noted and compiled into a final list of tasks for the completion of the project.

Support and maintenance

At Think Open we realise that life goes on after a project. Our aim is to create long term relationships by ensuring the right support agreement is in place to maximise the return on your investment.