Agile and Interactive Methodologies

We firmly believe that the use of flexible and repeatable software development and project management methodologies is an essential factor in our success at meeting your expectations. By following these methodologies, we ensure that projects are delivered on time, to specification and budget, but with flexibility to handle any changes you may require.

 

Software Solutions Framework

Beacon is an adopter of the Microsoft® Solutions Framework - a set of models, concepts and guidelines for designing and developing software. Our software development projects use the following elements of this framework:

  1. A team model for organising project teams
  2. A process model for managing a project's life-cycle
  3. A multi-level application model focusing on the interface, business rules and data services
  4. A design process that highlights the role of user-centred design

These models emphasise the value and importance of proof-of-concept prototypes and versioned releases. The models also contain mechanisms to manage risk in a project, to evaluate product quality, and to accommodate the need for change control.

 

Object-Oriented Software

Beacon's determination to achieve quality is driven by our commitment to ensure your satisfaction through the delivery and support of a top quality product. To this end, we have long been a strong proponent of object-oriented software construction. The fundamentals of this methodology rest above all on accepting concepts of quality, which demand that software should be correct, robust, extensible, reusable and portable.

 

In addition to this rigorous foundation, we are also enthusiastic promoters of the emerging technology of object-based software components - both as component builders and as system integrators.

 

Our project planning emphasises the importance of various approaches for product development including Iterative Design, Structured Systems Analysis and Design Method (SSADM), and Rapid Application Development (RAD). Our user-centric approach focuses on early prototyping to maximize usability and minimise project risk.

 

Beacon personnel have in-depth knowledge over a wide range of contemporary analysis and design tools and techniques. These currently include UML, Booch, OMT, ER and Yourdon. We are often in a position to adapt to your own chosen methodologies where this is required.