Digital transformation often necessitates the implementation of new IT systems, which, for more extensive projects, can include the replacement of existing core systems. Even if all goes smoothly, these are costly initiatives in terms of time and resources. But if there are unexpected issues that can’t be easily corrected, cost overruns can be astronomical. As with many business activities, planning is everything. Proper planning, through the creation of a “Masterdesign” can not only avoid unexpected costs, but can also ensure the end result meets expectations.
What is a Masterdesign?
A Masterdesign is a holistic, business-driven plan that provides insight into the scope and focus of the project by describing what the end product will look like in its entirety. In software development, the Masterdesign should also give insight into how to deal with changes that arise along the way (as an organization and within the software).
Construction architects always create a Masterdesign before developing a property. The process they go through when creating this design is something software architects can learn from and should consider following before getting started on any development project. IG&H sat down with a construction architect to learn their approach to creating a Masterdesign. This is usually a four-phase process that starts with getting to know the client, as follows:
1) The intake phase: The architect interviews the client to get an impression of their needs and desires for the building.
2) The imaging phase: The architect researches the construction site to uncover any preconditions that may impact the building.
3) The tentative design phase: The architect develops an initial spatial sketch of the building.
4) The design phase: A detailed design of the building is created.
A well-thought-out software design that follows these phases is critical for keeping development on track by setting guidelines and principles that align with strategy and value. Also, incorporating functionality and Agile methods of construction into the design will help ensure change can be easily managed and the system can be cost-effectively maintained. IG&H adheres to these processes and principles and partners with the world’s best technology providers to accelerate the development and delivery of our transformation projects.
Looking for more design details on how to optimize the cost of your IT system implementation? Read our whitepaper.
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