The Implementation Process

Over the course of nearly 100 implementations, Pica9 has developed a disciplined project management methodology tailored to the particular demands of brand logistics solutions.

(1) The Pica9 Visual Specification: Based on our discovery process with the client, this document depicts, in graphical form, the logical flow of the user experience for the application, and provides callouts to define key features in the application. The Visual Spec evolves during the system setup process, and serves as the touch-point for all internal acceptance testing. It also provides a great starting point for the development of training materials or site documentation.

(2) Comprehensive Data Model: The data model, defining the tables to be included in the database and the fields within those tables is derived from the Visual Spec and designed to provide the data support that the user experience requires.

(3) Creative Analysis: This defines the editable elements within the creative, ascertains correct design behavior in dynamic sizing use cases, and sets parameters for content limits, etc. We utilize an online collaboration system to route tasks from application management to development and on to testing at maximum velocity. And we measure the efficiency and effectiveness of every project, conducting retrospective sessions with the entire production team, to determine where our process might improve to the benefit of brand, user, and Pica9 alike.

Using the principles of Agile Development, Pica9 assembles a cross-functional team for each client, comprising a system architect, senior developer, senior designer, project/application manager and a user-support/documentation specialist. This team convenes daily whenever the client has one or more live projects in house, for the purpose of ascertaining the status of separate workstreams, and to achieve maximum velocity—defined as the speed with which usable functionality is delivered to the target customers. The Agile method encourages development to be segmented into tasks small enough to be clearly defined and confined, so as to deliver usable functionality to the field as often and as quickly as possible. Scrum methodology allows us to execute on 7-12 major projects per month for one client, some with turnaround times as tight as 48 hours.