Our project model
Our project model is based on Microsoft’s SureStep method combined with our years of experience with CRM and ERP projects.
Instead of one roll out, we divide the project into tasks that are deployed continuously. We do this in collaboration with you in phase 3 in an iterative process.
MicroPartner is a certified Microsoft partner and has since 2001 helped + 150 businesses and organizations with business developing and value adding solutions.
We have a strong team of dedicated consultants with extensive experience and strong commitment to the Dynamics 365 platform.
Our project model is divided into three phases:
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Phase 1: Business understanding
Premises and the surroundings may change
The project document is an open, governing document. Elements can be added and removed, and priorities can be changed continuously. This approach is based on the realisation that we all become wiser over the course of a project, and that the premises and the surroundings change along the way. Therefore, one must act in an agile manner, so that outdated requirements are not prioritised in the final solution.
Prototype
Based on the project document we build a simple prototype that we present to the customer. It is our experience that a simple prototype better illustrates functionality and opportunities. It is, however, important to empathize that a prototype cannot go live.
Impossible to define all requirements in advance
The conditions under which a business operates are constantly changing. The complexity and speed of the change makes it next to impossible to define all requirements for a project in advance. Therefore, agile and flexible models that take into account the ongoing emergence of new needs are required.
Project document
MicroPartner’s approach is simplicity and agility. In the understanding business phase, we have workshop(s) in collaboration with the customer, where we are to gain insight in the customers business, the vision and goal of the project as well as their customers’ needs. Afterwards we work towards a system-independent requirement framework called a project document.
The project document does not dive into all the details. It describes the strategic considerations, customer processes, needs as well as the vision and goals that the project must accommodate.
CRM considerations
Phase 2: Decision
Understanding needs
In the decision phase we need to understand the different needs the users and the customers have.
The process includes workshop(s) and interviews with key users and area specialists, and they will participate in different work groups, where existing business and customer processes are described and discussed.
Customer processes
We process the collected knowledge so that we may identify the greatest challenges and shape the processes with the customer at the centre.
From business processes to customer processes: Read how you get a handle on your customer processes.
Iterations
Each business/customer process usually goes through several iterations, where different key users and area specialists contribute with renewed knowledge, so that we can make the final adjustments in the extended prototype.
Extended project document
Based on knowledge gained from the workshop(s) and the extended prototype, we develop an extended project document containing prioritized tasks based on the budget as well as work break down and time estimates.
CRM considerations
References
Phase 3: Roll out
Build it right and run it right
We work according to the motto: ‘Build it right and run it right.’
This means that if your solution is to have a long lifespan, it is necessary to build it right and enhance it right.
All customizations must the considered and only implemented if they make sense – also in the long run.
Iterations
In the roll out phase, we work in iterations with you. This means, that tasks are completed and implemented continuously in collaboration with you. This approach ensures that you your system goes live quickly and that you can begin using it and get experienced with the it.
This approach covers both implementing projects, maintenance and enhancement of the solution.
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Service and operation
MicroPartner provides support and service. We are available both inside and outside office hours and on weekends and holidays. All support and service agreements are adapted to needs and preferences.
On-Premise and hosted
MicroPartner also operates Microsoft Dynamics 365 On-Premise solutions and hosted Microsoft CRM. For the latter, the customer pays a fixed annual cost per user. We also host ERP solutions.
MicroPartner’s servers are located in a modern, redundant hosting environment with backup emergency generators in case of power failure, and all modern functions.
References
Maintenance and enhancement are a natural part of the system’s lifecycle
A relevant system
Time and again, maintenance and enhancement prove crucial to whether the system is appropriate and well-adapted to changing business environments. This is about maintaining a constant anchor in the organisation.
Maintenance
Maintenance is about correcting any faults that arise and ensuring that the delivered system works. Enhancement focuses on correcting anomalies in existing processes and building new features when the company wants to build a new communications channel for its customers, for example.
Enhancement
We see enhancement of the CRM and ERP solution as a natural part of the system’s lifecycle. New needs arise constantly, and business processes change over time. And new functions are taken up as the knowledge and experience of users grow. Both maintenance and enhancement should be an integral part of the system’s lifecycle.
CRM/ERP manager
We advise customers to appoint a person to be responsible for internal coordination in the implementation phase. After that, there should also be a ‘CRM manager’/’ERP manager’ to look after continued maintenance and enhancement.
The manager’s tasks
Their task is to collect change requirements for existing processes, come up with ideas for new initiatives and ensure that the CRM and ERP system remains in line with the business strategy.
From business consultant to sparring partner
Within MicroPartner, the primary business consultant from the implementation phase now becomes a sparring partner. The consultant’s detailed knowledge of the delivered solution and the relevant market ensures good long-term cooperation with the CRM/ERP manager in the company. New needs and new business modification usually demand continuous adjustment of the solution as the company’s customer contacts develop.
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Value through knowledge
Every business process in a system must create value for customers, users and managers. The value increases when the right people have the right knowledge about the supported business processes and understand how to use the system. That is why training is an integral part of all our CRM and ERP deliveries.
CRM and ERP training
In our experience, the training of new employees and further training of existing users is essential to the long-term position of CRM/ERP within the organisation.
The training may come from MicroPartner or be provided by internal trainers from the customer itself.
Training in the solution
We will be happy to organise tailored training in the customer’s custom solution. And, of course, we can also teach on standard versions of Microsoft 365. This kind of training is often a good start to an implementation project, as the selected employees gain a deeper understanding of what the standard solution offers – and what it does not offer – when it is ‘unpacked’.
The course equips selected employees to be included in the design group which is to map the system support for selected business processes.
From business processes to customer processes: Read how you get a handle on your customer processes.
Contact us to learn more or to schedule a free demo
Our team of experienced and dedicated consultants is always ready to help and guide you, so you can make the best decision. Whether you need advice or want to have a personal demonstration, we are ready to assist you.
Contact us today through the form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
You are also welcome to contact us directly at Tel.: 70 88 67 83
