Highpoint’s project management philosophy is based upon the best practice elements of Prince 2 and Agresso Implementation Methodology (AIM). It also draws on the extensive experience of our consultants. The result is a highly relevant framework designed to optimise the support we provide.

A robust project framework helps create a positive working environment, where confidence, ownership, empowerment, clarity and focus are the norm. Our approach achieves this by adhering to a structured methodology which develops:

• Excellent communication.
• Knowledge transfer.
• Measurement (controls).
• Accountability.

To achieve these aims the project is phased as follows:

• Initiation.
• Design.
• Development.
• Testing.
• Implementation.
• Training (To be reviewed separately).
• Post go live support

This approach ensures the project scope, objectives and plan are created through consultation with stakeholders at all levels.

Appropriate project documentation is a key element to any project. We propose to use the following documents:

• Brief Project Initiation Document
  • Used to identify roles and responsibilities and communicate what the project is and what the timescales are.
• Project Plan
  • This will be a simple project plan created using excel, but showing the key tasks, who is responsible for them and when they are to be undertaken. An example is attached to this document.
• Issues Log
  • This is a excel form which will be used to capture all the issues as they arise, who raised them, when and who the resolution of the issue has been assigned to.

• Solution Design Documents

  • These are word documents written to capture the key elements of a design. Once completed, these documents form the key reference material for building the prototype and production systems. They also form an important document post go-live in terms of supporting the system.
• Change Control Documents
  • It is important that any changes to the design are captured correctly. Documenting not just what the change is, but why it is necessary and who signed it off.

• Site Visit Forms (Job Sheets)

  • These are key project management tools used to communicate to the consultants and other members of the project team, what is expected of them and by when. These forms are returned to the project manager in order that the project plan can be updated and incorporated in the monthly project status report.

• Project Status Report

  • The project manager will produce a report at the end of each month, confirming progress against plan and highlighting any issues.