We have already discussed several lifecycle models for you to choose from, however, if you are looking for a particular model that is able to provide a “ready” product at every stage or phase then, you should consider the Staged Delivery Model. The project team can stop the development of any task at any given time, and the product would still be functional to customers.
Staged Delivery model allows for products to become deliverable at every stage. It prioritizes requirements set by project managers and these are clearly addressed as you go along each stage. Additionally, with the Staged Delivery Model, it is easier for you to set a budget, which you will be more likely to stick to since it is basically built and developed according to your plans and resources. Furthermore, it is a rather safe model to use and poses quite a contrast against daredevil models that can be too risky for some.
Staged Delivery Model Phases
Staged Delivery model employs the same phases as that of the Waterfall model except that every phase has a defined “delivery” and that this model only has 4 phases.
Requirement specification: The phase wherein requirements and needs are defined. Budget and timeline will also be set here.
Planning: In the requirement specification phase, needs were determined; for the planning phase, the project team will then set goals and what they hope to accomplish.
Implementation and Testing: Phase 1 and 2 indicated the needs and goals; in the implementation and testing phases, the goals are being subdivided into smaller, more specific categories, with emphasis on priorities. Here is where the difference between the Waterfall and the Staged Delivery model lies. At this stage, the subcategories such as designing, testing and distribution are each being tested, thereby making them ready should the project stop at any point.
Closure: The phase wherein every document and result gathered from the project is assessed. Best practices are derived here, and a careful evaluation of the positive and negative outcome of the projects is then used for current and future tasks.
Advantages of Staged Delivery Model
There are several advantages of using the Staged Delivery Model. For one, it is a rather predictable system that allows the project team to easily detect problems before they happen. This way they can avoid unnecessary costs and resources when faced with issues along the way.
Another advantage is that the product can be used right away without the need to finish the project, if necessary. Additionally, because testing is done more often, there is close interaction between the company and the customers; customers and product; and the project team among each member. Lastly, because the project is divided into smaller tasks in the 3rd stage, there is less room for error.
Disadvantages of Staged Delivery Model
There are very few disadvantages of Staged Delivery model. First, it will not work for new and inexperienced project managers. One’s inability to clearly identify the targets, requirements and goals will affect the outcome of this project. It is always advisable to leave this up to highly experienced managers. Also, not all kinds of project will work with this model such as those that cannot be tested before the project is actually done. For example, in events-there is no way you can let customers come in a few days before the date of the event just so you could test them.
The Staged Delivery Model is a great system to use for certain projects. You should know if the one you plan to take on would fit before utilizing it for a project. It is also important that you are able to set your priorities well; you should know which aspect of the project you develop first, then second, then third, and last. By setting clear objectives and knowing when exactly you should be done would help guide you as you go through this model.
With the Staged Delivery Model, you can be assured that quality is always going to be part of the overall development. With testing at every stage and the ability to be “ready,” this model has a lot of benefits to offer a project team.
