Why Implementation Methodology Works For Retail Management
ChainDrive’s Implementation Methodology is the result of collaboration with experienced retailers. As pain points in retail management were clarified, discussed, and researched with the goal of developing an integrated retail management solution, three stages of our Professional Services were recognized:
- Planning (Kick-off, Scope, and Validate)
- Implementation (Execute, Test, and Train)
- Deployment (Go-Live, Post Go-Live, and Client Care)
“Implementation Methodology” is the name we came up with to identify the deliberate process our team uses to make sure our clients have the integrated retail management software solution they need.
Retail Planning
The goal of retail planning is to meet the client’s business goals and objectives beyond all expectations. Often a customer is not aware of the way the right software application will solve problems and optimize efficiency, so they are not expecting that part of their business to be transformed. When our team meets with your team, we listen first. This is the kick-off. If you don’t need a team, a ChainDrive business analyst does the listening. Then we ask questions to make sure we understand what you want to accomplish. This is the scope. Then we make suggestions that will meet your project goals including key milestones and deliverables. This is the validation. Client-centered service focuses on properly defining scope so that successful implementation takes place.
Implementation
During implementation, we execute the plan. To ensure the software solution is implemented into your business with minimal disruption to daily operations, testing and training take place initially. This ensures that adjustments can be made as needed in the early stages and minimizes risk while maximizing project predictability and repeatability. Once the quality and structure of the software are finalized, we are ready for deployment.
Deployment
Deployment is taking off the training wheels and letting you ride freely. We call this “go-live” because it describes that freedom. But you aren’t alone because post go-live we are paying attention to how things progress by communicating using consistent project management processes. Once the implementation of the software is complete, our Professional Services team introduces you to ChainDrive Client Care. Client Care is always available to provide continued guidance as you move forward with our integrated retail management solution.
Implementation Methodology is a good name for the deliberate process our Professional Services team uses to make our retail management clients successful with ChainDrive.