Odyssey Delivery Services
Odyssey has a large group of consultants who help our clients implement Odyssey solutions. These consultants are located throughout our global network, cover the full skill set to implement our products and vary in seniority.Project Methodology
Odyssey employs an implementation methodology which has been developed over a number of years. Whilst the length and duration varies from project to project, we usually apply the same approach.
The Standard Implementation Methodology consists of the following phases:
- Project Initiation Study
This phase precedes contract signature, enabling an accurate evaluation of the scope and requirements, risks, assumptions, dependencies leading to qualified estimates and timescales for the resulting project. Also included in the phase is the definition of the roles and responsibilities of all parties expected to be involved in the project.
- Project Startup
Following contract signature, the phase concentrates on the development of detailed project plans and resource assignments, and establishing the project framework.
The second key activity in this phase is to prepare detailed specifications for any identified gaps, and specifications for the interfaces between the back-office, trading and other systems forming part of the solution.
- Project Tracking
This phase concentrates in the implementation of the core systems, configuration and customization in accordance with the defined requirements and development and testing of solutions for identified gaps and interfaces.
Throughout this phase, regular tracking of progress against the project plan is fundamental. The Odyssey methodology provides for regular progress reviews both at the operational level and via the steering committee. At all levels, ongoing risk management and re-assessment is performed.
- Project Closure
Upon successful completion of the implementation activities and live implementation of the solution, the project is prepared for handover and ongoing support and maintenance. The key activities in this phase are to provide support during the stabilization of the newly implemented solution and to prepare the documentation of the Site Binder for handover to the Service Centre. Finally, a Post-Project review is carried out to document the experiences gained and lessons learnt from the project. The output of this review is key to ensuring the success of future projects.
Change Management
Throughout the process, from inception to handover to support, a formalised Change Management process is maintained. The process will ensure that any change, whether to timescale, scope or deliverable is documented, agreed and approved. The approval process will be agreed with the client, and will typically enable the project managers to approve small changes, with more significant changes requiring approval by the steering committee (or equivalent)
Risk Management
Risk management is a key process within the Odyssey project methodology. During the Project Initiation Study (PIS) the risk log will be created, documenting all known risks, together with their containment/contingency actions (where known), impact and probability assessments and ownership.
It is essential that ALL risks are recorded, thereby minimising the chances of unforeseen events disrupting the project.
Throughout the project the steering committee should review as a minimum those risks with a HIGH overall severity or above.
New risks may be added at any time, as agreed by the project managers.