Selfsourcing - The Selfsourcing Process

The Selfsourcing Process

For simple computing systems such as customizing reports or creating macros a system can be developed in a matter of hours. However for more complicating systems, a more formal process must be followed very similar to that of the Systems Development Life Cycle. The primary difference is the inclusion of prototyping.

The first step in the process is planning. This is where goals are set and aligned with the organizational goals and objectives. A project plan is developed and the proposed system is analyzed to determine if any external support is needed. The project plan lays out the what, when and who of the system. It is the salient piece in ensuring successful completion. The second step is analysis which includes the gathering and analyzing of the basic business requirements. The third step is an extension of the second as the basic requirements are identified and prioritized. This puts the knowledge workers in a position to now develop the initial prototype for the fourth step. Prototyping is the process of constructing a model demonstrating the aspects and feasibility of a proposed product. There are two types of prototyping processes: insourcing prototyping and selfsourcing prototyping. Selfsourcing prototyping lets knowledgeable workers refine their prototype until they are satisfied with it and it becomes the final working system. The fifth step is knowledge worker reviewing. This is where knowledge workers evaluate the prototype and suggest changes or additions. Following through with these suggestions is the sixth step where the prototype is revised and enhanced. The final step is maintenance where one must monitor the system and ensure it is achieving its goals.