Introduction
Getting the right approach and method can be key in ensuring the success of a project. Any supplier needs to be flexible and able to provide the right choice for the client or project.
Apt Software use a variety of methods - whichever is best suited to a particular client or project. Some projects only require something straightforward. In these cases, we find clients like the KISS approach - Keep It Simple!
For totally new projects or re-developments, we typically adopt either a "Waterfall", "Iterative" or "Agile" approach, with a degree of formality to suit the client. Here is an overview of a Waterfall development process:
Requirements
Meet and/or discuss a client's needs and what a client wants.
Analysis, Design, Prototyping & Refinement
Determines how to best deliver a solution that meets a client's needs. This involves analysing the existing systems and procedures, producing technical documentation and a requirements document.
The next step is to review and refine the requirements with the client, and possibly demonstrate prototypes with a client and users.
Coding & Testing
This is the stage where the actual programming takes place.
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
This stage is when the client's users preview and test the new system before going live. Any problems, bugs or changes can be resolved during this process.
Deployment & Implementation
This is when the client rolls out a new system. A client can choose how they want to deploy their system live. For example, a trial implementation, a staged implementation, or a parallel implementation. There are lots of options.
Development Support Contracts
To give a client assurance in their new software, system or website, I can provide a Development Support Contract. This gives the client extra confidence that, as the original developer, I will be available to deal with any problems or bugs if they arise post-development and post-deployment.
Training & User Guides
Upon request, I can provide complete user guides, context-sensitive help, and on-line help guides. In addition, I can provide training.
What we use
The approach we use can be very informal and simple, as some clients prefer this, or formal and to industry standards. Some formal methods we use include:
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