Phase 0

Initiation Phase

The initiator of a project can be anyone within the company but will typically be in the sales, marketing, or development groups.

Enough information needs to be provided to the approving authority to enable them to make a decision based on the company strategy, existing projects, and current resource availability. This will be done using a Project Charter form which requires approval by the VP of Technology, the VP of Marketing, and the VP of Sales.

Phase 1

Concept Evaluation Phase

Explore technical and market possibilities of an idea to determine if it meets customer needs. The evaluation should be complete enough to convince a sponsor that an idea has enough merit to fund an investigation. Players from each functional area begin to investigate the implications of the idea in their area: Can we build it, can we test it, can we sell it, can we ship it, can we support it?

Phase 2

Feasibility Phase

A Proof of Concept, prototype, or simulation is completed. User requirements are defined, a product strategy is established, a detailed business plan is produced, and a risk analysis is completed

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Phase 3

Definition Phase

A cross functional team is formed that represents the critical organizational functions in driving the project to completion. This team develops detailed specifications and finalizes the product design. Global market segmentation and product strategy is completed, including its eventual phase out from our product line.

Phase 4

Development

The final product design is translated into the physical product, process or service supports system. It is tested for meeting form, fit and function. All product requirements are met in the Alpha version. User Education, Logistics, and Support have completed their plans. Product documentation begins.

Phase 5

User Acceptance Phase

Product is tested in the customer's environment to insure reliability and functionality. Support plan and training plan are implemented. Change Control kicks in.

Phase 6

Commercialization

The product is introduced and shipped. Measurements are implemented. Plans and tools are archived. A Post Launch Review is held. After a product is shipped, it is monitored for success or failure. Revenue tracking is in place.

Phase 7

Software Retirement

The Software Retirement Plan, developed during the Definition Phase, is implemented.

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