The EPS consulting process is about working smart. Whether the goal is
developing a finished software application or simply resolving a software
conflict, it is EPS people, with their technical knowledge, communication
skills, and attention to detail that our clients treasure.
Our methodology is humanistic because it supports both the
client's project and the people involved in the assignment. We rely on frequent
interaction with the client, using email, advanced collaboration tools, online
project management and online source code distribution.
The EPS consulting methodology consists of six interrelated
components, all supported by established project management standards and
practices.
Requirements
The requirements phase of any project is where the groundwork is laid. Just
what is it that you wish to accomplish? Gathering requirements is the first
step to getting the answer. EPS consultants are pros at getting the complete
picture using a combination of experience, intellect, and a well-defined set of
procedures that have been honed through experience. It may take a while but it
is the only way to establish a good foundation to any development project.
System Specifications
Comprehensive and complete specifications created at the beginning of a project
allow us to identify, surface, discuss, and solve problems early in the
development process. This means minimal reworking of structure as the project
moves forward. This helps eliminate development time and costs overruns.
Standardized design plans based on agreed-upon specifications result in
software that works. EPS produces an exhaustive set of "Use Cases" as defined
by the Unified Software Development Process so that our clients and EPS
developers can document system functions accurately and efficiently.
Design
Once the system is fully detailed, EPS loads the Use Cases into our modeling
tool and describes the system architecture and workflow. Our abilities and
experience in both data modeling and advanced object modeling ensure that
consulting projects move seamlessly from requirements to design to development
to deployment. UML is applicable to any domain and is language and platform
independent. It is not just a way to design; it is the way to
design.
Implementation
During the implementation phase of a project EPS can and does assume several
different roles. We are coders, mentors, testers and system documenters
depending on the project that we are working on. Sometimes we are intimately
involved; sometimes we only assist where necessary.
Implementation occurs in parallel with an interactive testing
process that starts with bench testing individual objects up to full
integration stress testing. Doing this ensures that issues are caught before
they spin out of control. Critical items are addressed before reaching the
quality control phase.
Quality is continually monitored and results are reported
regularly. Problems are identified and addressed. EPS has an ongoing emphasis
on client input and quality control throughout the process. This results in a
project that stays on time and on budget.
Maintenance
Once software is delivered and installed, the job is only half done. Software
has to be maintained and enhanced through its useful life. EPS Custom Software
Group's goal is to design and document systems so that maintenance and
enhancements are easy to implement. The company stands behind our work by
providing information, training and follow-up.
Customer satisfaction and ongoing communication doesn't stop with delivery.
