Our Approach

Determine Requirements

Each project begins by having the client clearly describe their objectives and requirements. To make sure Southern Vistas has a clear and accurate understanding we create a Design Specifications document that describes the objectives and requirements as they were given to us along with general design considerations. This part of the project is usually completed in just a few days.

Verify Design Specifications

Although the Design Specifications is simply a document at this point it forms the basis for the project. It is therefore important that we gain verification from the client that Southern Vistas accurately understands the requirements, and that they are complete. This verification step begins when the Design Specifications document is given to the client and ends when the client agrees that the specifications are accurate and complete. If any discrepancies are noted, they are corrected and specifications are updated. Until verification is complete, work continues on steps in the project that are not dependent on the specifications but some work must wait until the Design Specifications are finalized.

Create Prototype

Sometimes the requirements may seem right to everyone while they are described on paper, but once the final product is built, it becomes clear that some of the requirements were somehow misstated or misinterpreted. By creating a prototype early in the project that models the finished product, such misconceptions come to light earlier when it is easier to correct them thus avoiding expensive rework later in the project.

Verify Prototype

This is the second stage of verification to help make sure that the project is headed in the right direction. The prototype is provided to the client so that it can be reviewed and commented on. Once client approves the prototype work begins on the draft solution.

Set Up Environment

Depending on the project, some setup work may be needed and this can usually be initiated in parallel with prototype creation and verification. For Web projects, the domain name if obtained (if needed) and the Web server is prepared during this step. For print projects, a time-slot is reserved with the printer. This can usually be done within a day.

Create the Draft Solution

This is where most of the work takes place on the deliverable and it can range from a few days to a few weeks depending on the complexity of the project. During this period, samples of the work are provided for the client’s review so that they can continue to verify that the deliverable that is taking shape is what they require and this also allows them to monitor the progress of the project.

Verify Draft

Once work is completed on the project, the client is asked to review the deliverable one last time before it is finalized. Once the client approves the draft, work continues into the final stage.

Create the Final Solution

At this point the Web pages are moved to a permanent server location and opened for public access, print material is sent to the printer, or a presentation is burned onto a CD.