Implementation methods for all types of project
The ProAct solution is geared towards addressing the specific needs of our clients and those of their clients, often resulting in the need for unique business processes and local subtleties in their decision logic. Whilst the ProActXpressTM products predefine these processes and decisions, for many, the industry standard ‘one size fits all’ approach does not achieve the wider business goals. Therefore, the ProActXceedTM and ProActXpertTM products are geared towards meeting those very specific challenges. Whilst many clients may operate in the same sector and share many common processes, it is important to acknowledge that all projects are different. Each business environment has its own unique strengths and weaknesses that will ultimately determine the profile of a project. Factors such as whether the solution is a replacement of a legacy solution or a ‘green field’ implementation all define the challenges to be overcome. This is where ProAct’s experience really counts.
There are a variety of approaches to an implementation, but generally speaking they are either ‘phased’ or ‘big bang’. Most project methodologies with say that the ‘big bang’ approach is one to be avoided as it increases the overall project risk. However, there are cases where the ‘big bang’ approach cannot be avoided, so cannot be excluded. A ‘phased’ approach is certainly much lower risk, generally lower cost and often lower overall effort. The elapsed time to go-live of a phased implementation is faster and overall the project duration is often reduced. This is because ‘big bang’ requires far more preparation and management, requires every requirement to be clearly defined and requires a far greater degree of testing. Phasing allows us to break the project up into typically 2 or 3 phases, the first of which being the implementation of the MVP solution (see 7.1 below). Peripheral functionality, interfaces or MIS can then be introduced more safely in phase 2 and 3. It is also easier to adapt and flex within a phased project implementation.
ProActXpress solutions are pre configured and are largely pre packaged solutions . A standard operational process is provided along with a set of data loading tools. As such, Xpress deliveries are not project based and therefore enable faster delivery and start up.
ProActXceed deployments are typically more project based starting at the requirements analysis or confirmation stage and involving a level of solutions configuration by ProAct to meet the specific business needs of the client. It is within these projects that the principles discussed in this document are most applicable.
ProActXpert projects are similar to ProActXceed projects, however with ProActXpert the client is trained how to perform their own solutions configuration with a view to future self sufficiency. The idea being that the client is then able to make most, if not all future ongoing process amendments and improvements by themselves without the need to rely on ProAct. This therefore is different level of engagement with the client, one that requires the client to assign configuration super users who will be trained and supported in the ongoing configuration of the ProAct solution.
In a world where pandemics and politics restrict our movement and climate change challenges our need to travel, the requirement to deliver more remotely has become paramount. Again, phased implementations are another tool to enabling this and are therefore a key principle in any ProAct delivery.
Finally, whilst in the midst of any project, we must not lose sight of the business itself and must be conscious of the day-to-day pressures of the client individuals involved, both management and operational. Any project approach will always aim to be sensitive to these needs.