METHODOLOGY

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT METHODOLOGY

Software development involves using selected process techniques which allows for quality software engineering with the best delivery times and least scope for error.  In other words, selecting the right software development methodology to suit your needs is an important factor in managing and minimising risk.

Rather than following a rigid development pattern, at the onset of project discussions, 3E helps you choose the best software development methodology fit for your requirements.  Primarily we follow the two best practices available –

► Agile Methodology - SCRUM

Agile methodologies generally promote a project management process that encourages frequent inspection and adaptation.  It fosters a leadership philosophy that encourages teamwork, self-organization and self–accountability.  It follows a set of engineering best practices that allow for rapid delivery of high-quality software.  Agile methodologies acknowledge business approaches that align product development to rise to customer needs and company goals.

3E follows the SCRUM project methodology for complex projects subject to constantly evolving project requirements. SCRUM is an agile method which is used to manage software developments using an iterative, incremental and empirical approach.  SCRUM recognizes that the scope of a project is subject to change (or a requirements churn) along the way, and that such unpredicted challenges cannot be overcome by a traditional or planned approach.  As such, SCRUM is a people-oriented and adaptive method which focuses on maximizing productivity and responding to emerging requirements.

Key practices of SCRUM include –

 Customers function as a part of the development team.
 SCRUM provides frequent intermittent functional software models, enabling clients to constantly monitor progress and revise project scope based on their changing business objectives.
 SCRUM follows a transparent project planning and development process.
 SCRUM facilitates frequent risk mitigation and analysis, with advance warning systems.

► Waterfall Model

Albeit rather old fashioned, the waterfall model is still a sound and reliable model for projects having simple non changing objectives.  This disciplined and plan driven model provides an orderly sequence of development steps, which allows for better management. This is accomplished by Project scoping and analysis, design, coding, testing and documentation and training in a strict and pre-planned sequence. Progress is generally measured by tangible deliverables.

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

3E’s Software Project Development Model (SPDM) allows clients to stay on top of things by tracking performance and progress through detailed reviews at every stage of development, while still enjoying the tranquillity of having us manage project planning and execution.  A clear cut project methodology is followed to ensure 360° analysis as well as effective task completion in the stipulated time and budget.

Our core processes includes

► Cumulating & Analysing Requirements

In order to provide relevant and streamlined solutions, client requirements are gathered in a structured manner for feasibility analysis.  Under circumstances where exact project specifications outlining the behaviour of the software, does not exist, 3E undertakes scope documentation preparation and prototypes building to take client concepts and put it on paper.  This is followed by brainstorming sessions to communicate on the best technology options available and techniques to overcome possible challenges.

 

► Architecture

Based on detailed specifications, architecture is planned, to ensure stability of the product software or application.  Functional specifications are subjected to analysis to ensure all requirements can be met and future scalability is possible.  An exact time and cost estimate is then provided for client consideration.

► Programming & Testing

This phase involves the actual development and implementation of the project.  Initial prototype provided to the client is herein replaced by a full scale solution.  Clients are given the option to stay in the developmental loop by constantly monitoring progress through our internal project management portal.  Upon completion of project development, codes are subjected to stringent software testing for early elimination of bugs and errors, which can prove costly down the line if not detected at this stage.  Once satisfied with the flawlessness of the final product, it is released to the client for review and feedback.

► Post Production Maintenance

The best way to ensure product and code quality is not compromised is to have the same developers working on the post production software maintenance.  Based on project size, software maintenance are followed through either as a part of the original contract, or as an additionally purchased option.  These contracts include any unforeseen bug corrections that may arise, as well as functionality customisations that the client may require to keep the software updated with market requirements.