Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Methodology - Development Phase

Megha Kainth, 06 June 2011

The fourth phase in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Methodology is the Development Phase. The main aim of the Development Phase is to formulate the customizations, workflows, reports, custom portals, Plug-ins that may be required and to confirm by extensive testing that the component functions come together as per the requirements outlined in the Solution Design Document (SDD).  We also need to create the user manual and, if required a deployment plan and training plan.  

Staged approach

Except for very small projects, the development is divided into stages, each with a milestone so the Client can objectively see how the project is progressing.  This is important because the project is invoiced progressively and such staging and milestones provides evidence to the Client to justify payments.  Frequently the milestone will be a demonstration to the Client of functionality – so the Client can see the system progressing.

Changes

Even in the Development Phase, the Client may request a change – perhaps when they see part of the system demonstrated.  If the change is trivial, such as renaming of a field or a different colour scheme, it can be included in the solution immediately at no additional charge.  If the change involves more work and was not included in the SDD, then a Change Request must be raised.  The Change Request will define the change and any additional cost will be estimated.  The Change Request will need to be approved (signed off) before the change is implemented.

Testing

In general, we have three stages of testing.  The system, or part thereof, is tested by a developer other than the developer who developed it.  When the system is complete, it is tested by another person against the Solution Design Document.  Finally, the solution is made available to the Client to conduct User Acceptance Testing (UAT). 

Completion of the UAT by the Client and Client approval of the system is the milestone signalling the end of the Development Phase.

In my next post I will cover the next phase of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Methodology, the Deployment phase. Stay tuned till then!