Our Approach

A major process that Ivertex utilizes in project-based engagements is its 4D approach. 4D, adapted from the Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF), enables Ivertex to take a structured, disciplined, yet rapid approach to developing systems for our clients. More flexible than many life-cycle "methodologies", this process model combines the best attributes of classic "waterfall" and cyclical approaches. There are four iterative phases within this delivery framework: Discovery, Design, Development, and Deployment.

Discovery Phase
The goal of this phase is to bring the project team and its customers together and establish a common understanding of scope and base assumptions. The vision/scope, including high level requirements, user profiles, technical architecture assessment and risk assessment, is the chief deliverable.

Design Phase
The goal of this phase is the completion of a detailed functional specification of the solution, which contains descriptions of each feature of the system and a delineation of all user services, business services, and data services to be provided by the system. A detailed master development plan and schedule is delivered during this phase.

Development Phase
This approach to application development is to drive toward a fixed release date (the "scope complete" milestone) with the philosophy that "it is everyone's responsibility to ship the product" on or before that date. For the development teams itself, product quality is enhanced by a series of "internal releases" with the database and visual design being frozen at a planned point in the phase. Deliverables for development include completion of code, documentation, test plan, and updated risk assessment.

Deployment Phase
This phase and its "release of product" milestone are owned by the Test/QA role, with significant support from logistics and user education. Primary deliverables are the released system, roll into production, training and support plan.