Launching a software development project with a vision of success demands more than just a good idea and a talented team of developers. It requires a holistic approach, integrating the expertise of diverse IT roles to create a product that not only meets the technical requirements but also delivers a seamless user experience and aligns perfectly with business goals.

Each role in has its own tasks crucial for the project development, but how do you make sure that no one is operating in their own bubble? I became curious about this matter and decided to ask the experts about how to prepare the ground for comfortable project work so as to safeguard against common mistakes.

From the nuanced eye of a UX designer to the strategic foresight of a Project Manager, each role offers a unique perspective on how to build a solid foundation for a software development project. Let’s uncover the essential knowledge shared by our experts across different IT domains.

UX Designer’s Perspective: Invest in User Pathways and Information Architecture Early

Before jumping into coding, it’s crucial to invest time in analytical processes. A well-thought-out information architecture and user pathways can significantly enhance the project’s outcome. Here’s why:

• Detailed analysis of information architecture and collaboration between the UX team and backend developers can reveal broader connections between functionalities, define scopes, and create a comprehensive list of screens.
• User journey mapping is indispensable early in the development phase. Skipping this step risks needing to revisit and iterate on functionalities developed in earlier sprints.

Analyst’s Insight: Approach System Upgrades with a Fresh Perspective

When upgrading to a refreshed version of a supporting system, it’s beneficial to treat it as if implementing such a system for the first time. This approach helps in:

• Avoiding the replication of predecessors’ flaws and processes, offering merely a newer interface.
• Critically reviewing the current system to identify unnecessary, overly complicated features, or missing functionalities, which guides the construction of a better system.

Developer’s Advice: Review the Requirements Before Software Development

Before starting development, critically review the gathered requirements. This critical approach helps in:

• Understanding the business area better and simplifying processes.
• Avoiding the inclusion of outdated or redundant data and functionalities, ensuring the project remains focused and efficient.

Project Manager’s Strategy: Comprehensive Planning from the Start

For a project manager, meticulous planning of every aspect is key to meeting client needs within the set timeline. Essential steps include:

• Resource planning: Determining team composition and identifying executors.
• Methodology selection: Establishing the work methodology and resources available from the client’s side.
• Defining final products: Clarifying expected deliverables from the onset to streamline project direction.

Tester’s Role: Ensuring the Presence of a Dedicated Tester

Underestimating the role of a dedicated tester can lead to significant project setbacks. A tester’s involvement is vital for:

• Accurate testing: Developers testing their code or PMs checking functionalities often result in overlooked issues.
• Reducing error reports from clients: Well-tested functionalities decrease the risk of a bug backlog during final stages, helping to maintain the project budget and timeline.
• Streamlined work on well-defined requirements: Precise requirements limit the room for error, reducing the occurrence of issues that are not genuine bugs but rather feature requests or changes.

A successful project is not just about coding; it involves a comprehensive, cross-functional team effort. Early investment in user experience design, fresh approaches to system upgrades, critical review of requirements, meticulous planning, and ensuring the presence of dedicated testers are crucial steps in setting a project up for success.

Not sure how to plan your project and set it for success? Let us help! Schedule a consultation with a subject matter expert and tell us about your challenges.