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Documentation |
A frequently discussed but seldom
integrated item related to software and project
development is effective documentation. A well-audited
guide outlining the lifecycle of the given project
provides not only the know-how, but perhaps more
important a reference point for users. In this way, a
properly documented process will save the organization
training time for new personnel.
BPS utilizes the 'Sandbox' approach in tandem with
architecting your solution. From the requirements
analysis stage through to the completed assignment, each
item is tracked and itemized within a web-enabled
user manual including project notes, mockups / artist
renditions, supporting documents, development code and
individual feedback leading up to the result. Through each phase, the individual
components are arranged in a contextual format with
change requests, history and milestones with an option to output to
hard-copy.
Research and Proposal Documentation.
Developing a proposal requires preparation, patience and
experience. Tantamount to the time involved in preparing
a quality product, attention to detail and planning must
be coordinated prior to execution. Many proposals are
often shelved due to the explanation and discussion
points being too idea or user-centric instead of
focusing on the prioritized deliverables of the funder.
Once the goal of the bid or call is clearly understood,
a roadmap or template of steps to follow can begin. A
suggested listing of items to consider in moving to the
proposal development stage include:
Highlight the items of most importance within the
proposal guidelines
Consider partnerships which share a common-goal
Approach prior proposal reviewers to assess the desired
approach to follow
Describe why your organization is best-suited to the
fulfill the requests of the bid
Clearly explain the approach in both the executive
summary and in the main body message
Describe the challenge(s) with a clear directive on the
provided solution(s)
Back-up your reasons with research articles, papers
Include a section for evaluating your proposed plan
In developing the budget, ensure your numbers are
precise and not general (i.e. include each deliverable /
cost centre and not general items)
As the overall look and design of your proposal will be
assessed, pay heed to consistent font style, contents,
grammar/spelling and format
In addition to our private sector focus, our consultants
have developed proposals for government, associations,
academia and regulators. Our 'collaborate and learn'
approach provides a method of defining the specifics of
the bid or RFP with a multi-stakeholder review before
writing. This allows us to explain the proposed solution
and provide a mock-presentation to ensure the decision
points are understood and clearly answered. Similar to
an iterative software development exercise, the goal of
each proposal is to answer the critical and complex
items at the onset. By doing so, the stakeholder,
collaborator and writer share the same vision.
To learn more about our documentation practices and how
it benefits your technology project please contact us.
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