Go Forward implementation methodology contains, among others, the following elements:
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action procedures (who does what, when, how and why in each phase of the project)
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model forms (for the implementation process documentation),
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project tools (i.a. for project documentation management, business process modelling, program change management, data migration from source systems),
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examples of template solutions (a base of knowledge and experience from implementations carried out by BCC).
The Go Forward methodology is distinguished by its overall approach to the life cycle of IT systems that support the Customer’s corporate management. This approach covers efficient implementation of systems, their effective use, maintenance and development.
In the Go Forward methodology, we use unique elements:
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engagement of the BCC service organisation operating according to ITIL standards,
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a solution concept based on a graphic model of processes, compliant with the BPMN standard,
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a virtual work environment – MS SharePoint portal.
The engagement of the BCC service organisation
In addition to implementation consultants, BCC service consultants participate in selected project works and acquire knowledge about the solution being prepared for a customer. This allows the customer to besupported by BCC service organisation, operating according to ISO 20000 standards and the code of good practices described in the ITIL library, during go-live and immediately after it.
Go-liveruns more smoothly. The users of the new system can focus more on their normal duties, during go-live, and after. The participation of BCC service consultants in the implementation allows also for a smooth transition to effective service (ongoing support for SAP users), without any additional knowledge transfer.
A solution concept based on a graphic model of processes
Whencreating the SAP solution concept, we use the BPMN (Business Process Modelling Notation) standard, which reflects the model and designed processes in graphic form. The model processes, presented in the form of clear diagrams, are a starting point. The work on the concept consists of its verification and adaptation. By using a graphic form, that is understandable to everybody, a better effect can be achieved: the target solution is better suited to the company’s needs, and the use of predefined model processes enables project teams to focus on business optimisation. The base of processes developed during the implementation may be used as a basis for process-oriented company management.
Virtual project work environment
We provideproject participants with a project portal prepared in the MS SharePoint environment. It creates a virtual work environment for people involved in the project. –They have permanent access, from anywhere in the world, to project documents and up-to-date information about the status and progress of work. The use of the portal increases the efficiency of implementation work and allows project participants to focus on the better effects of the project. The experience of BCC in defining projects in the project portal, enables templates which include elements (e.g. a structure of the project, a list of documents, lists, reports) that are commonly used in different projects.
Phases of implementation of SAP solutions according to the BCC implementation methodology
The SAP system implementation process, according to the Go Forward methodology, consists of the phases described below. After each phase, the Customer obtains partial deliverables, which jointly allow a new system to be launched in the company.
Phase 0 Pre-implementation analysis
The purpose of the initial phase is to determine the general framework of the project: the scope, a schedule and a budget. Persons designated by the customer and BCC, participate in meetings which gradually refine the functional and organizational scope of the system, to meet the requirements of the company. On this basis, BCC prepares an SAP system implementation offer including all significant assumptions for further project phases.
Deliverables of the phase: A system implementation offer, contract
Phase 1 Project preparation
In this phase, the implementation project and methods of working in the project (work regulations, training regulations, documenting, status reporting, record keeping and work accounting, use of resources, etc.) are defined in detail.
Deliverables of the phase: Project charter, Project regulations
Phase 2 Conceptual design
In this phase, training for the customer’s employees in the field of SAP solutions is conducted and an Implementation Blueprint ―a document describing how the customer’s business processes will be implemented in the IT system ― is prepared.
Deliverables of the phase: Implementation Blueprint
Phase 3 Prototype realisation
In the third phase, the so-called system prototype is prepared based on the implementation blueprint, through the parameterisation of the system settings. The prototype undergoes tests within individual functionalities and integration tests of the whole system to check if it functions properly.
Deliverables of the phase: A prototype of the SAP system
Phase 4 Preparation for operation
In the fourth phase, end users are trained in functions performed in the system. The SAP system is also filled with real data from IT systems that currently exist in the company (or other data sources).
Deliverables of the phase: A production system
Phase 5 Go live and operation
In this phase – after system go live – end users are supported on the first days of their work. Furthermore, the technical settings of the system are optimised.
Deliverables of the phase: Ongoing use of the SAP system
BCC carries out SAP implementations according to the Go Forward in-house developed implementation methodology, which enables the development of an optimum IT business solution for a specific customer, based on an individual approach to hisneeds and on the experience of BCC.
