Our process of software development follows a few well-defined steps, each equally important. Although we describe them here as separate steps, in reality they overlap. Our goal is to get the software into your hands as soon as possible. You can test drive it and let us know how to make it even better. That feedback can then be incorporated throughout the further steps of development.

1. Gather Requirements: You explain to us what information you would like to collect, how you would like the information entered, and what kind of reports you would like generated and whether this information should be available in other formats. Two important things happen during this step. One is that we learn how your business works so the software will reflect it precisely. Two is that the detailed examination opens the possibility of modifying your business process to take advantage of the way computers handle information.

During this stage, we determine the minimal set of features to be supported (the "needs"), as well as the ideal system desired (the "wants"). This allows us to establish priorities based on time and budget. 

2. Design: We design your system to meet the specifications. The design step takes the most time of all the steps. Properly defining the data structures and their relationships is key to successful system development and means the system will be easily modified as your business grows. Properly organizing the data entry tasks into menu selection and grouping and ordering the individual items results in an efficient work flow. As we move ahead in the project we show you screens and incorporate your comments and requests.

3. Test: We test thoroughly to make sure that first, the system is strong and robust and will not crash or produce errors, and second, that the original requirements have been met and that the business rules embodied in the system are correct. As early as possible we involve the users of the system in the testing. 

4. Implement: When your system is finished, we install it. Existing data, if any, is converted to the new system. You and your staff receive any necessary training and final testing is done to make sure that all of the pieces of the system are working correctly and in concert with one another.

5. Support: We are available for ongoing support, including future modifications or enhancements to the system. We can provide technical consulting in other areas, as well.