Jed Murray /
Software Project Manager
Whether it’s building and transforming our clients’ brands with our marketing and web services, or innovating our own internal processes for better results, at b4b we’re always on the move and looking for ways to develop wherever possible.
Recently, our software and web teams took an introspective look at their internal processes, knowing that there were ways in which they could maximise their output.
They decided to leap into the world of Agile methodology, conducting research and spending time understanding how it could be applied to their own processes.
Read on to find out more about how we applied this knowledge to our internal processes, as well as how this will benefit our clients.
Research and analysis
Once the team had decided to invest in Agile methodology, they got straight to work familiarising themselves with the concept. The aim was to utilise it to streamline processes and increase control.
Two of our team, Scott and Jed, were invited to an intensive course to receive a qualification in the subject. They brought their newfound expertise back to the office, and have successfully integrated a number of elements from the course into the department’s processes.
The impact of Agile methodology
Scott and Jed say that the biggest impact seen in the software department was on their project methodology, and how they approached projects from start to finish.
Using their knowledge and skills, they were able to streamline their development process into easily completable linear segments, introducing new phases into the process that specifically targeted areas marked for improvement.
Their process now begins with a feasibility stage, taking a step backwards and analysing the project as a whole before taking the first steps. Once the overall project details have been figured out and the client’s requirements established, the team will then assess the project for risks and ensure they are anticipating any issues that may arise.
Once feasibility has been fully assured, the team moves on to the foundation stage. As the name suggests, this phase ensures that everything is in place for the project to be a success. The project only begins once thorough analysis has been carried out, and an in-depth requirements list established.
This requirements list is shared with the client, so that complete alignment is reached regarding overall goals and project direction.
How do our clients benefit?
By continually looking to innovate and improve our processes, we see results in the way we deliver for our clients.
The team report that the two new phases integrated as a result of learning about Agile methodology have helped tremendously in a number of ways, by setting strong boundaries from the offset and achieving complete alignment with the client.
This means expectations across the board are routinely satisfied, with everyone knowing how the project should progress over a certain time frame and how this will be reflected in the budget.
Find out more about our software and web design services
If you would like to find out more about b4b and our comprehensive range of software and web services, you can explore our case studies, or talk to a member of our friendly team today on 01202 684400.
