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A software project always starts with hope. The idea is there, the goals are outlined and the team is excited to get started. But are we really ready to go? Often we don’t stumble along the way, but make mistakes before we even take the first steps. And these small mistakes avalanche down the project as a whole.
Why is vision and planning so important? Over the past 27 years, I’ve learned that successful software projects are always based on a strong vision and a well-developed plan. Vision is the clear picture that defines why we are starting the project and the value we want to create. It is the compass that helps us stay on track in the most difficult situations. And planning is the map that shows us how to get to our goal.
But what happens if we take them lightly? A poorly defined vision or an incomplete plan can lead straight to failure. If the goals are not clear, the team can quickly lose focus. If costs are underestimated, resources can run out in the middle of a project. If the schedule is unrealistic, everyone will be scrambling. These mistakes often decide the fate of the project at the very beginning.
How do we do it? At DevZone, we start every project with step zero: understanding the client’s vision. We don’t jump into development until it’s clear exactly what problem we’re trying to solve. For example, with one of our clients who wanted a new customer relationship management system, we first focused on understanding what challenges their existing system was facing. Why do they feel they need to change? What do they expect from the new system? These simple questions helped us to create a plan that was not only realistic, but one that created real value for his company.
We don’t just look at technology issues in the design process. We also consider aspects such as:
- How will the new system fit into their business processes?
- Who will use the system and what are their expectations?
- What are the biggest risks to the project and how can we manage them?
These questions will ensure that the vision becomes a real, tangible plan.
Why is it important for you to get involved in step zero? A software project is not a gamble. Lacking vision and planning is like setting off on an unknown journey without a map. You might get somewhere, but you might also get completely lost. But a strong foundation will give you the confidence that your project will not only be successful, but also create real value.
This is just the beginning. In the next newsletters, I’ll guide you through the next steps of software development, showing you where your project can go wrong and how to avoid pitfalls. From design to testing to implementation, we’ll cover all the important stages.
Have you ever faced a project going wrong from the start? Write us your story and I might share some solutions through your example in the next newsletter!
Best regards,
András