The design and development process is absolutely critical to the success of any software project. The creation of a complex e-Commerce or other web based business applications is an interactive orchestration of many, many technologies, process steps and reviews.

A wcm Solutions we have developed a methodology and process to insure successful completion of complex software projects. This process utilizes simple and straightforward management techniques. The difference is in the execution!

Some will say, "Well I don't know enough of the details to plan the project in details. Or, there are too many unknowns to provide any level of certainty to the project plan". Well, I can assure you that if you can't define the project in detail, you are setting yourself up for a big surprise and disappointment. If the project is stepping off into the unknown, you may have to break the project into stages and define the first stage in detail before you proceed to the next.

This doesn't imply that everything will go as planned. The concept is to use a plan. It is the only way that you will know that you are on target to complete the project within the projected completion timeframe.

The following steps provide an outline of this process. It works for us.

1. Begin with a stated objective - everything else must follow.
2. Perform the requirements analysis.
3. Prepare a formal functional specification.
4. Obtain management agreement on the specifications.
5. Consult with the developing organizations and personnel and prepare a detailed project plan. We use Microsoft Project for creating the plan. This step is critical to insure that we have taken in consideration all of the microscopic details of the project. It is just too easy to say "That can be done in a couple of weeks". Using a detailed project planner with time frames, dependencies and resource allocation will put harsh reality back into the project. This is also essential in measuring the progress of the project.
6. Review the plan with all participating parties. Insure that there is sufficient contingency time for unexpected surprises.
7. Set up a system of reporting completed items against the plan and hold project reviews with the participating parties to evaluate progress, and difficulties.
8. Conduct almost daily micro-reviews of everyone's status to insure that each and all are working on the same page at the desired pace. This will help prevent "derailment".
9. Periodically conduct project reviews--"Show 'n Tell" for management to keep them appraised of the progress.
10. Constantly be aware of red flags that may indicate trouble for the project. Spot them early and apply appropriate remedial action immediately.
11. At the completion of the project, lean back and enjoy the success of a well-executed plan.