Methodology

The most important factor for success in today’s business management climate is the ability to make swift operational and financial decisions. Operations managers need timely, accurate information. At SSi Consulting, we take pride in our ability to question, examine and understand the unique traits that distinguish how different businesses operate, what makes them successful, and how to deploy software that improves productivity.

SSi Consulting is uniquely qualified to help you realize that success through a proven five-phase process:

• Phase I — Due Diligence

  The first step to any successful system implementation begins with due diligence. We work up front to understand your business goals and needs, and to ensure that both our approach and the solutions we deploy represent the best path to successfully meet those goals.

  Through due diligence, we will ensure that our engagement with you results in a win/win relationship. This commitment to win/win is critical to developing a long-term relationship that enhances your business now and into the future.

• Phase II — Implementation Planning

  Planning is essential to success in developing business management solutions. We will work with you to design a detailed implementation blueprint to keep the entire team focused on your business needs and goals. The plan identifies the major components of the implementation process and attaches them to a timeline. Through the use of project management best practices, resources are scheduled and managed in the most efficient manner.

  The implementation plan documents the software to be installed, the testing required for each aspect of the plan, the processes and tasks that need to occur, and a training plan for your staff. A project manager will work closely with the senior consultant and your team to monitor the success of the implementation. A Client Binder documents the entire process.

• Phase III — Environment Preparation

  Greater sofware functionality also means a high degree of interaction between the hardware and software systems that make up today’s information technology.

  Smooth-running applications are only the most visible part of a well-run computerized information system. Software integration requires an understanding of the configuration of the current computing environment before beginning implementation. We conduct a systematic review and documentation of your system environment. Before implementing software applications, deficiencies identified in the system review should be rectified. This approach minimizes problems both during implementation and after.

  Our staff includes trained Microsoft Certified System Engineers that can handle environmental issues and professionally install software applications to assure success.

• Phase IV — Implementation & Training

  The implementation phase begins with an entrance conference. At the entrance conference, the implementation team will review and agree on the implementation plan.

  Throughout the process, the project manager issues official progress reports to those with a need to stay informed. Should the scope of the project change, an engagement letter amendment is prepared detailing agreed-to changes. Planning policies are documented for every step of the project.

  If needed, we produce detailed, customized Procedure Manuals for the system as it is implemented for you, including step-by-step instructions. These Procedure Manuals are enhanced with training exercises and are used to conduct training sessions.

  Our implementation and training consultants are experienced professionals, typically former corporate controllers, human resource directors, or executives who were in similar positions in organizations just like yours. Many have advanced degrees or specialties, such as an MBA or a CPA certification.

  SSi Consulting is also certified to make source code modifications and other customizations to the programs, and if needed, to suit your specific needs. Our highly trained and certified programming staff can provide everything from minor changes all the way to developing completely new, integrated applications.

• Phase V — Ongoing Support

  Just like your business, your systems must grow to adapt to changes in the business environment. We are dedicated to the long-term success of our clients. To ensure that your new system keeps pace with your business, we can perform a system review. This review has been designed to examine the use of your system and recommend ways to improve operations through new or underutilized features.

  Our in-house Support/Help Desks are staffed by professionals who are familiar with your company and software. Also, we hold annual an Users Conference which provide you with an opportunity to meet with others, learn about new product releases, share common experiences, have support questions answered, and learn about ways to get more out of your software. Our customers see us as a reliable and involved company that truly cares about their company’s needs.