TRS Group can evaluate IT Solution Strategy options available to tackle complex business challenges from multiple perspectives such as functionality fit, return on investment, ease of implementation, payback, etc. In performing such engagements, we bring together our management consultants, and vertical and horizontal solution experts to provide a comprehensive perspective to the evaluation process.

Methodology

We conduct a structured, three-phase approach for IT Solution Strategy Analysis:

• Phase I – Establishing a Fact Base
• Phase II – Analysis of Solution Alternatives
• Phase III – Implementation Planning

Phase I – Establishing a Fact Base

TRS Group carries out data collection, interviews and focus groups to understand the current usage and system architecture of the current application solution and its business environment, assess the user experience and performance of the system, surface major requirements, issues and limitations that any future system will need to address and prioritize them. Our activities involve structured interviews and basic metric data collection as well as a best practices review. Our approach is an issue-driven one, so that we focus on the key aspects of the proposed solution without consuming too much effort on peripheral or secondary concerns.

Phase II – Analysis of Solution Alternatives

In identifying potential system solutions to the prioritized requirements surfaced in Phase I, we consider a broad set of options from package, semi-custom and full custom solutions. In developing these options we take into consideration the current systems architecture and key functional and data assets that the client would like to leverage in the future solution. We also analyze the solution alternatives that are best equipped to fill functionality, technology, infrastructure and operational gaps that are prevalent in the current system. We develop total cost models for the solution options, taking into consideration license, implementation, process change, training and maintenance costs.

For comparing the various solution alternatives we conduct Cost Benefit Analysis, computing the ROI of an application or an IT solution. Our approach utilizes the financial principles of NPV, IRR and payback period and computes the cost-benefit tradeoffs based on:

• Total Cost of Ownership
• Quantification of tangible and intangible benefits
• ROI analysis

Furthermore, where possible, we validate the solution options against key use cases and workflows through cross-functional workshops in order to surface any deficiencies and help develop a solution recommendation.

Phase III – Implementation Planning

Based on your decision to adopt one of the recommended solution options, we create a very detailed implementation plan for the desired solution. The plan details all activities, timelines, staged investment hurdles and metrics for tracking implementation as well as the rollout and impact of the system replacement. The plan also provides specifics on the program management office and defines roles and responsibilities across the client and other parties involved in the implementation, rollout and post-implementation change management.

Benefits

Our IT Solution Strategy approach will help you understand all the technology options available to you to tackle your business issues. You will be able to evaluate the options available from all perspectives such as functionality, ease of implementation, time lines, cost, return on investment and payback. Our recommendations, which are based on the principle of vendor and technology neutrality, will enable you to make the decision based on objective analysis.