NWDS adheres to industry-accepted software development practices when developing software. Our methodology follows these steps:
1. Assess client needs, opportunities and issues.
Existing systems are evaluated for effectiveness. Strong points and deficiencies are identified. This step is generally carried out by interviewing end users of the system and consulting with IT support personnel.
2. Define functional requirements and performance specifications.
Functional requirements are defined for new system. Deficiencies in existing system are addressed along with opportunities for improvement.
3. Design/Develop/Test Software for Systems Integration
Proposed system is designed. Plans are prepared for logical and physical construction, hardware, operating systems, programming, communications, training, and security issues.
New system is developed. New hardware and software must be obtained, installed and integrated. Train end users on the new system. Every aspect of functionality and performance is then tested.
4. Support Program Implementation
New system becomes used in the business.. The new system is phased into the business operations, according to application or location, and the old system is phased out.
5. Support New Operations
System performance is monitored; tuning and synchronization are performed. End users and help desk calls are observed; Procedures are changed and supplementary training is conducted as needed. Changes are recommended via formal change management processes.
6. Evaluate/assess program performance
Once users use the new system for a few weeks, the system should be evaluated thoroughly. Maintenance must be kept up rigorously at all times. Users of the system should be kept up-to-date concerning the latest modifications and procedures.