In the world of software development, the process of turning an idea into a fully realized digital solution is nothing short of complex. The development pipeline is not without its intricacies, and for a business to start a development project from the ground up, it can look like a difficult journey. Every development project, however, starts in the same place; with a blueprint. Regardless of the scale of the desired solution, each of these endeavours requires the attention to detail of an analyst. Just as a real-world architect is crucial to the blueprints of a new house, an architect and analyst for the digital world is just as valuable.

Getting the Big Picture

At its core, the role of the analyst is to absorb and understand the client’s vision top to bottom. This means working closely with the client to understand their day-to-day, connecting with their desired outcomes, and accurately identifying potential challenges that will appear along the journey. Once the vision is communicated, the analyst documents the specifications, functionality, and logic that will ultimately guide the development of the solution. From here, the analyst is communicating in two modes within one document. They must address two audiences simultaneously: the development team and the client. The developers must be able to interpret the provided specifications in order to build out the solution with no misunderstanding. Meanwhile, the client needs to be able to read through the document and understand what is being built, and why it is designed the way it is. The duality of documentation drives a successful development project from its inception.

Ongoing Support

Of course, as is the case with any software solution, that development journey never does come to a definitive end. Visions for future phases come in all shapes and sizes. From adding features to enhancing existing functionality, the analyst is there to keep that communication alive. If the client has a vision to expand upon what was built during the first phase, the analyst ensures they are heard and allows them to understand the best methods to make that vision continue to come to life. Internally, it is critical to keep the developers informed and provide that blueprint to move the second phase forward as smoothly as the first.

The bridge between the client and the developer of course extends beyond intended adjustments. Any bugs that appear in the system along the way deserve as much attention as a planned phase. The analyst works with the developers to identify any issue that requires support, and keeps the client in the loop and informed on what the issue is, how it will be fixed, and ultimately, when it is fixed.

Conclusion

The role of the analyst is critical in the success of a software development project. When multiple parties are involved, communication is key, and there is no room for mistaken information. The client deserves to feel that their vision is in good hands. Taking on new endeavours and embracing potentially unfamiliar technologies is becoming increasingly relevant in our ever-evolving business landscape; having a trusted partner to guide the way is essential. On the other end, developers deserve a clear and direct path towards the product that is to be built, so they can do what they do best. Without the blueprint, the task at hand becomes a challenge, and every journey is made easier with some navigation.

At OPG, analysis is treated as the first step of any new client relationship. Our team takes the time necessary to listen and understand what you need out of your upcoming project. Have an idea for a new solution and not sure where to start? Let an OPG Analyst do the heavy lifting for you, and our developers will build your solution upwards from there.

Ready to start that journey? Contact OPG today and learn how we can help you get there!