Traditional implementation methodologies usually involve the creation of a design document that details the system features or updates, including information about the business process, any custom fields, roles and profiles. The document is reviewed and approved by the client before any implementation begins. Any change will have to go through the review/approval process again. While this works for a software development project, it does not work well for Norming PSA implementation projects.

With the agile methodology, projects are structured in repeatable sprints of design- prototype-test-evaluate. It provides the following benefits:

Speed

For every project, time is of the essence. In order to put the system in to operation, businesses prefer projects that could be accomplished in iterations. With agile, requirements gathering and implementation happens almost simultaneously at the beginning of the project, lending itself to rapid delivery.

Flexibility

Considered one of its greatest strengths, agile allows the freedom to make changes as necessary. With other methodologies, project managers are bound to what is in the design document that was approved in the very initial stage of the project.

Client involvement

With the agile methodology, early prototypes and quick iteration, the implementation consultant can engage the client on day one. They can go in and see what is going on with Norming PSA, evaluate the object-specific reports, look at results, raise concerns and provide valuable feedback for the next iteration. By the time it finally goes live, the client has become a very knowledgeable user able to navigate the product inside and out.

Predictable schedule and cost

The agile methodology calls for sprints which have narrower scope and shorter timeframes. With each sprint having a known duration and scope, there is a clearer understanding of the cost of the entire project as well as the timeline for its delivery. This gives the client greater control over the direction and cost of the project. In turn, it provides the implementation team insight into the features that are more important to the client.

Open communication channels

The team has a system in place to communicate openly. There is clear visibility to the status of the project. Clients have the opportunity to review the project, see how it is progressing, and provide feedback.

The agile methodology is great for Norming PSA implementation projects because it enables faster response to changing business requirements. From the start, the client has greater visibility and autonomy over the project. The regular review enables the implementation team to work with more relevant data to produce a high-value final product.