The DBS
System Development Methodology involves dividing a project into
separate phases, each designed to emphasize customer interaction and
satisfaction.
On completion of each phase, we walk-through the outcomes with
the customer to ensure that a clear, shared understanding of the
project exists between all parties. The customer has the opportunity
to confirm work to date and accept the work before we proceed to the
next phase of the project.
Generally, a separate quotation is provided for each phase at the
commencement of the phase, though an estimate for the full project
is provided at the beginning of the project.
The phases are:
Phase I - Project
Initialisation
A project is initialized through a visit at the client. This meeting is free of charge. The purpose of
the meeting is to:
- Introduce the DBS team
- Explain our development methodology
- Demonstrate a sample specification and products
- Discuss our Terms and Conditions
- Assess the overall scope of the client project
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase II - Determine
the Requirements
The next step in the development
process is to identify the clients needs and opportunities more
closely. The purpose of this stage is to gain a solid understanding
of the business requirements. We do this by meeting with the client
project manager and users alike. From this meeting we will produce a
User Requirements Document which outlines the business needs
and the best software solutions.
Prior to this meeting it is beneficial for the client to prepare
an outline of requirements, the members involved in this project and
main users.
Note: If this project involves converting an existing system, for
example, from Access to ASP, and no functionality changes are
necessary, this phase may not be required.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase III - Design
Specifications
The Design Specifications
of the systems are identified from the User Requirements Document.
Design Specifications' include all the necessary steps for design,
delivery and implementation of the project. DBS ensures that solid foundations are prepared for the project.
We walk through this document with the client for acceptance and
sign off.
At this stage we also like to get users to have a look at some of
our past databases to get ideas and see our standard look and
feel.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase IV - Software
Development and Testing
Construction of the
software is carried out during this phase, along with alpha testing
and verification by our team.
Any changes required in the design are
made using the DBS Change Request System.
There are two methods for reporting changes:
- Electronic
submission (preferred)
- Manual
submission
In each case DBS requires Client approval for nominated
changes.
DBS follows 13 different rules to developing better code. Please
see DBS's
13 Rules to Better Code for more information.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase V - Handover and
Acceptance
The software is installed at the customer's site for beta testing
and acceptance by the customer. Once accepted, the software is ready
to be installed into the production environment for 'live' use.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase VI -
Training
Training can be carried out during this
phase. A User Guide and On-line Help can also be provided if
required.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
Phase VII - Support
and Enhancements
One of the most important
aspects of a software development is the post-implementation
support.
Support is defined as ensuring the database
maintains its current functionality. The support cost is 15% of the
total project cost. Otherwise it will be charged on an hourly basis.
It does not include data corruption. Onsite visits will be charged
on an hourly basis, unless otherwise agreed upon.
Enhancements are defined as
changes to the delivered software package. There are two methods for
reporting changes.:
- Electronic
submission (preferred)
- Manual
submission
In each case DBS requires Client approval for nominated changes.
Date:_____________ By:_____________
_____________
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