Methodology
A methodology is simply a standard process used to do something and of course standardising processes has many benefits.
Signify has used, modified and developed numerous methodologies for Project Management, Software Development, Information Architecture etc. To give you some idea of how we work we have included some detailed information.
The Signify Analysis Methodology (SAM)
The Signify Analysis Methodology (SAM) is a Unified Process (UP) based analysis process for establishing and managing requirements and change in the projects we deliver.
SAM doesn't apply to all projects Signify conducts but once a project reaches a certain size or complexity there is a need to apply a methodology with a high degree of ceremony and discipline to the requirements gathering process. The methodology is scalable and is tailored and adjusted in order to work best with the needs of each project and the way our clients like to work.
Signify Project Management Methodology
Over the years we’ve delivered hundreds of successful projects. Through the quantity of projects we have delivered over time, we’ve learned from our mistakes, honed our skills, and have developed an approach to Project Management that really works. It isn’t rocket science, but it’s critical to your success. It’s all about good communication, and being disciplined. When it comes to aligning sponsors, clients, and the development team's expectations, managing risk and change, and generally keeping a project on track, it is essential to keep everybody in the loop, and to plan and track each project in a way that makes sense to everybody involved.
We use a range of tools and techniques to help us manage scope, changes, and risk, but we understand that every project is different – we’ll select the methodology to fit the project and you, not the other way around.
Signify’s Project Managers are all experts with a huge wealth of experience. One thing we’ve all come to learn is that change is necessary and unavoidable. Your project will be a success because we will keep you fully informed and fully involved. We look forward to working with you!
Signify Information Architecture Methodology
Information architecture is a key part of the overall web development process. We see it as the time where we can really focus on the user.
Prior to working on the information architecture there's been a focus on business needs, on stakeholder requirements and on how the website will fit with the strategic aims of the organisation. During the information architecture phase we seek to balance that with a user-centred approach.
We look firstly at who the users are - what are their characteristics and motivations. We often develop some personas (representing aggregated characteristics of users) to help keep us focused through this process.
We mostly ask questions about how the website will help the user accomplish their goals.
Once we have a clear idea of the users and what they want to accomplish, we work through how the site should be structured to enable this. From paths and user-flows through the site to navigation labels and incorporating specific functionality and applications within the site - we iterate and simplify whilst keeping in mind that balance between organisational goals and user needs.
Deliverables from the information architecture phase are likely to include a site map, a content plan and wireframes for key pages and functionality.