Project Implementation Phase

Project Implementation Phase Week One

Key points for week one:

• Meet with client about Data and get the first data drop -> If customer not ready, stop and escalate to project sponsors.

• Client team presentation –> Check if the customer set up the project of success on their end.

• Joint preparation of the kickoff workshop.

• If data and team are ready, PriceFx PM requests set up Dev and QA.

Initial Data Gathering: Laying the Foundation for Success

The Pricefx implementation journey begins with a critical first step - meeting with the client to discuss the data requirements and obtain the initial data drop. This initial data gathering exercise is a pivotal moment, as it sets the stage for the subsequent phases of the project.

During this meeting:

• Establishing a Collaborative Data Foundation, Pricefx team engages in a collaborative dialogue with the client, thoroughly understanding the data landscape, its structure, and the specific information needed to configure and populate the Pricefx solution. This collaborative approach ensures that both parties have a shared understanding of the data requirements and the expectations surrounding the initial data drop.

• Addressing Client Readiness Challenges, the success of this initial data gathering phase is contingent on the client's readiness and preparedness. Should the client not be fully ready to provide the necessary data, the Pricefx team must be prepared to take decisive action. In such scenarios, the team will need to pause the data gathering process and immediately escalate the issue to the project sponsors.

• Elevating Challenges to Project Sponsors, escalating to the project sponsors is a critical step, as it ensures that any roadblocks or impediments to the data gathering phase are addressed at the highest level. By involving the project sponsors, the Pricefx team can work to uncover the root causes of the client's unpreparedness and develop a coordinated plan to overcome the challenges.

• Validating Readiness Before Progressing, only once the data and the client's readiness have been fully validated can the Pricefx team proceed to the next phase of the implementation - the client team presentation. This presentation serves as a crucial checkpoint, where the Pricefx team can assess whether the client has set up the necessary foundations for the project's success.

Verifying the Client's Readiness: A Critical Checkpoint

After the initial data gathering phase, the Pricefx implementation process moves on to the crucial client team presentation. This presentation serves as a vital checkpoint, allowing the Pricefx team to thoroughly assess whether the client has set up the necessary foundations for the project's success.

During this presentation, we should strive for the following:

• Assessing the Client's Readiness, Pricefx team engages with the client's team, carefully evaluating their preparedness and the steps they have taken to ensure the project's success. This includes examining the client's internal processes, resource allocation, stakeholder alignment, and their overall understanding of the Pricefx solution and its implementation.

• Gaining Insights to Drive Readiness, by taking a comprehensive and collaborative approach, the Pricefx team can gain valuable insights into the client's readiness. This assessment helps to identify any potential gaps or areas that may require additional attention before the implementation can proceed smoothly.

• Client Team Presentation: Validating Readiness for Success, The client team presentation serves as a critical checkpoint, allowing the Pricefx team to validate the client's readiness and ensure that the necessary foundations are in place. Only after this validation can the implementation move forward with confidence, knowing that the client is fully prepared and committed to the success of the Pricefx project.

Project Implementation Phase Week Two

Key points for week two:

• Kick-off workshop to focus on Use Cases + User stories refinement (no changes) + expectations management. 

• Client gets familiar with PriceFx project methodology.

• Clear expectations about testing end response time. Training customer users. 

• First data load from customer.

• User stories preparation + kick-off meeting with CEs and QA.

Launching the Implementation Journey: The Pivotal Kick-Off Workshop

As the Pricefx implementation process transitions from the initial planning and readiness assessment phases, the team now turns its attention to the critical kick-off workshop. This workshop serves as the launchpad for the entire implementation effort, setting the stage for a successful and collaborative journey ahead.

The primary focus of the kick-off workshop is twofold:

Through the kick-off workshop, the Pricefx team and the client embark on a journey of collaboration, refinement, and expectation management.

Onboarding the Client: Familiarizing with the Pricefx Implementation Methodology

As the Pricefx implementation process moves forward, it is crucial that the client becomes thoroughly familiarized with the Pricefx project methodology. This onboarding phase is a vital step in ensuring a successful and collaborative partnership throughout the implementation journey.

We should focus on the following:

• Comprehensive Client Education on Pricefx Implementation Methodology, Pricefx team takes the time to educate the client on the comprehensive methodology that underpins the implementation approach. This includes providing a detailed overview of the various stages, milestones, and best practices that are central to the Pricefx implementation framework.

• Enhancing Client Alignment and Engagement, by gaining a deep understanding of the Pricefx project methodology, the client can better align their own internal processes, resources, and stakeholder engagement strategies to seamlessly integrate with the implementation plan. This shared understanding fosters a sense of transparency and trust, as the client becomes an informed and active participant in the implementation process.

• Enhancing Project Success through Client Familiarization, familiarizing the client with the Pricefx methodology allows for more effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making throughout the project. The client can better anticipate the upcoming steps, provide timely input, and work in tandem with the Pricefx team to navigate any challenges that may arise.

Effective Project Execution through Clear Testing Expectations

Establishing clear expectations regarding the response time for testing is essential to ensure smooth project execution. Additionally, providing thorough training for customer users is crucial to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize the system, thereby enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.

First Data Load

The initial data load from the customer marks a significant milestone in the project, as it involves the first transfer of critical data into the system. This step is crucial for validating the data integration process and ensuring that all subsequent operations are based on accurate and complete information.

Coordinated User Story Preparation

The preparation of user stories, followed by a comprehensive kick-off meeting involving Configuration Engineers (CEs) and Quality Assurance (QA) teams, sets the stage for a well-coordinated project. This initial phase ensures that all team members are aligned on project objectives, requirements, and quality standards, fostering a collaborative environment for successful project execution.