Methodology - Design Phase

In this phase the focus is on the Future or Desired State of operations for the project. This is the period in which the organization/people, process and technology are designed, created, documented, and verified to satisfy the requirements. All areas associated with people, process and technology are documented to provide a clear picture of what is to be built, how it will work and how success will be measured.

After the analysis and planning phase, the system is designed. Occasionally a small prototype of the final product is built and tested. Testing is generally performed by a combination of testers and end users, and can occur after the prototype is built or concurrently. Controls should be in place that ensures the final product will meet the specifications of the project charter. The results of the design stage should include:

• A service that satisfies the project sponsor, end user(s), and business requirements.
• Functions as it was intended.
• Can be produced within quality standards.
• Can be produced with time and budget.

Each section listed below defines the areas of focus that will be addressed or completed during the Design Phase, how/what is involved in addressing the areas of focus and the expected outcome of the completed area of focus. The timeline for these activities are not necessarily sequential in order as some activities may be worked concurrently.