The Application Management Project Model covers a wide range of potential client initiatives, including the acquisition of new business applications—either through custom development or selection and implementation of existing software--enhancement or upgrade of exiting applications and/or the ongoing support of client business applications. In some cases, this process is focused on only a subset of client applications, in other cases it is combined with the implementation of remote infrastructure support. Like the Remote Infrastructure Support Project Model, with which it is often combined, Application Management consists of the five standard unified process phases, plus the Ascella Initiation Phase: Click to view larger image Initiation – Client provides overview of the business, information on the specific technical environment (hardware, network, applications, tools sets and methodologies) current responsibilities for application support—including functional users and IT--and business goals for considering application management changes. This step also includes an overview of the application requirements based on a high level Concept of Operations. The Ascella team analyses the application using standard tools (e.g. LOC and function point analysis) identifies special elements such as multiple locations, staff constraints, schedules, etc. and prepares a preliminary estimate and draft contract. Clarification and negotiation followed by contract execution. Inception—The primary purpose of the Inception phase in Application Management is to fully validate and fix the overall scope of the project. This phase will differ for software product acquisitions and software development efforts, but will always incorporate a full review of business requirement and goals that will be documented in a Concept of Operations. This product serves to guide expectations and serve as a basis of ongoing scope management. This phase includes identification of required client staff and other development resources. The final deliverable in the phase is a detailed project plan, specifying key major tasks, tasks and activities, responsibilities, schedule, QA and management processes (including issue analysis and risk management) Elaboration—This phase encompasses the development of detailed business requirements, of specifications to guide construction (new software) or gap assessment comparing existing business requirements with available application alternatives. In certain Agile-oriented projects, this phase will incorporate prototype development. Ascella and client will prepare analyses of issues and supporting recommendations, analyses of risks and mitigation approaches. Preliminary client organization and other stakeholder management changes are documented. Key conversion requirements will be documented. The key deliverable is a detailed plan to guide construction/implementation. Construction—Complete, test, implement and document changes and new installations. In Agile development cycles, this phase will include multiple builds with client review and feedback. Support client acceptance tests, QA all processes and services; develop detailed procedures, training and documentation as required. Detailed conversion processes will be developed and tested. Ascella and client will identify and manage changes, adjusting any or all: scope, schedule, or contract. Ascella and client will execute change management (training, internal and external communication). Transition—Complete cutover and implementation of new application and support processes. All data conversion will be executed and QA’d. New processes phased in and placed in production mode (back-up, help desk, problem tracking and resolution, reporting, etc.). Remedial change management processes to smooth adoption of new application. Active user feedback and suggestions will be solicited and incorporated, as appropriate. Support—Execute normal operational cycles, collecting assessment data to establish benchmarks for future productivity enhancements. Collect and analyze new recommendations and propose long term goals for client review. Manage and report against SLA.