Design
We use a 'user-centred design' approach to solution design. This places the user at the centre of everything we do. Specifically the steps are:
- Discovery phase
- Structure design
- Information design
- Surface design
A dedicated requirements gathering phase, looking at the business problem, users, and functional requirements. This work is carried out first, before any application design has been started, to ensure the exact problem is understood and captured. A requirements specification is then written, including use cases where appropriate, approved, and signed off by the client.
The structure and information design phases focus on information architecture, interface design, and navigation. These phases involve working closely with the client to understand the main entities of the system, how they interact, and how they can best be accessed. - Our user-centred design approach encourages the development of wireframes, prototypes, and early development models after both structure and information design. These models can vary from simple paper prototypes put together during a workshop, to fully clickable interactive HTML prototypes. This approach allow us to put something in front of the client early on in the project and capture feedback.
This feedback is captured by means of formal usability testing with suitable end users. Using our usability environment we ask the user to complete a number of scenarios, under guidance of one of our staff. Their interactions with the model are then recorded and analysed. Feedback is then fed straight back to the development teams, supporting our agile development methodology.
The main output of the solution design phase is a functional specification that can be both understood and formally signed off by the client. Guided by the requirements phase, and validated by usability testing, this document describes the proposed system, its main entities, business rules, and wireframes for the navigation and user interface.
Development
At Concentra we use the Microsoft's latest development environments and software. Evolution is essential to stay competitive; it offers our clients a range of benefits by making use of new and upcoming technologies. These benefits include improved productivity, quality, extendibility, maintainability and usability.
Our teams of highly skilled developers are some of the best in the industry; bringing extensive software experience that has been recognised by a number of awards. Our close relationship with Microsoft means that they have access to the latest Microsoft technologies and receive training and technical support directly from Microsoft to keep ahead of the technology curve. The depth of knowledge obtained with certifications combined with years of experience allows us to maximise the potential of new technologies and development practices.
Our applications are tested for usability and functionality by end users, reducing risks and ensuring usability requirements have been met. Other benefits of this approach include faster delivery through a reduction in the amount of potential rework; lower costs and ultimately a better product.
