The quarterly publication of the International Legal Technology Association
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/67910
best practices How To Prepare for Your Next Project An agile project begins without a detailed specification for every feature and function of the solution, so there is no way to estimate the total cost to any degree of accuracy. However, it doesn't mean there isn't an estimate corresponding to all of the desired features and functions for the solution. Begin with a general list of desired features and functions. Prioritize what has been identified and then fully define only the highest priorities. This will provide the ranked scope needed to venture a cost estimate. This will be only a rough estimate since much of the scope is less detailed at this time. But, it does provide a high-level budget estimate for the entire project. This high-level estimate is complemented by the detailed and more accurate budget for the early iterations of high-priority items. As iterations continue, the next priorities gain more detail along with more accurate estimates. for the project to proceed further and the project can be considered done. This decision will be based on what the minimum acceptable features are, which could change over the course of the project. The 2020 Business Case for an Agile Approach Virtually every business organization has experienced a project failure at some point. As 2020 approaches, it's very likely your firm will develop custom applications to stand out from your competition and become more efficient at managing complex business processes. Adopting an agile approach and making sure your provider is on board with this methodology can drastically increase the probability of success for your firm's next custom development project. The idea that scope, time and budget can be controlled to your satisfaction while ultimately achieving the needs of your project should make you think about what type of provider you should engage and rethink your project plans in an agile way. Here's to your next success! Develop custom applications to stand out from your competition. The iterative nature of an agile project will solidify the budget as the project matures. As the budget changes, so can the scope in order to offset budget increases as needed. The total cost of past iterations compared to the high-level estimate provides a vital tracking metric throughout the course of the project. Accepting change from what was originally envisioned is a crucial part of preparing for an agile project. Embracing this and having confidence in the fact that what is most important is being addressed will help lead to success. In addition, continuing iterations without an end must be avoided. As the project ages, the total budget will grow nearer to the original estimate. When this occurs, the remaining scope must be examined to determine if anything is left with high enough priority to warrant continuing. Before stopping completely, sometimes it is preferable to pause at an interim milestone and perform a broad evaluation. During this evaluation, feedback regarding the status of existing features and the need for future features must continue; however, no new iteration will commence until absolutely necessary. It may be apparent that there is no need Gary Brandt is a Software Consultant at Clarity Consulting, Inc., and he has been a software development consultant and project manager for the past 18 years. Gary has delivered technical solutions for clients in legal, marketing, media, insurance and financial services. He recently delivered a legal process management solution targeting repeatable and measurable litigation practices. Gary has championed agile methodologies and tools to help his clients achieve success and business value. He can be reached at gary.brandt@claritycon.com. 14 Peer to Peer