The F.O.C.U.S. Methodology A Solution-based Consulting Framework

The construction industry is undergoing a massive shift. Information management, both the technology and the processes surrounding it, are becoming critical for project delivery. We recently had a client that was ramping up a major maintenance and repair program. Their management tasked them with executing five times the number of projects with the same staffing level and at the same cost.  A classic case of delivering more with less.

Solving this client’s challenge wasn’t just about creating efficiencies through a business process; it called for a holistic information management solution. We worked with them to determine how data should be collected, stored, owned, and reported – and then we helped them create the tools and processes required to support this new strategy. 

Information Management Solution – A strategy for how data should be collected, stored, owned, and reported as well as the tools and processes required to support the solution. 

Delivering information management solutions starts by following an established methodology. Lydon Solutions has been developing and implementing business solutions in and around construction information management for over ten years. To tackle the challenges our industry presents, we developed the F.O.C.U.S. methodology.

So, what is F.O.C.U.S? 

F.O.C.U.S is our step-by-step methodology that can be applied to any process but works well when delivering information management solutions. Not unlike the PMBOK methodology, F.O.C.U.S is a guideline that can be adjusted depending on the size, budget, and schedule of the project. The steps, which are most effective when followed sequentially, each include inputs, processes, owners, and outputs.  As we complete each step, results are reviewed with the client to ensure everything is in-line with their requirements.

Here is a breakdown of the steps in our F.O.C.U.S methodology:

Formulate. First, we begin with fact-finding to gather high-level business requirements. This step helps us formulate the problem statement, provide a preliminary solution, and develop a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimate and schedule.

Organize. Once all parties understand the preliminary project scope, schedule, and budget, the next step is defining detailed requirements. Here we evaluate “as is” and “to be” business processes with the client (for more on this, see my blog post on documenting as-is processes). Taking the time to do this kind of thorough assessment and documentation ensures that all requirements are well understood and expectations clear. It is at this point that we may need to revise the budget and schedule before building out the solution.

Together, Formulate and Organize, make up our Envisioning Process, which leverages both our experience and a series of proven templates required in support of providing a business case. These templates include assets covering a project charter, risk assessment, governance, solution concepts, project staffing plans, and cost estimates.  Having these deliverables not only enable our clients to be more confident in the successful outcome of their project, they also allow them to demonstrate to their stakeholders and senior leadership that the requested budget is realistic with minimal undefined assumptions.  

Construct. Lydon Solutions takes the outputs from the previous Envisioning steps and moves into building out the solution.  We hold bi-weekly review meetings with the client to go over status, monitor scope, address questions, and ensure the solution development is progressing efficiently. We have found the Agile development approach to be the most effective way to manage the build process since it provides the most flexibility to change as a result of shifts in scope and definition.         

Utilize. Once we complete the development of the solution, it then needs to be implemented. Implementation is more than just handing over the finished product; it entails training, knowledge transfer, effective communications, and regular follow-up meetings to ensure the deliverables meet the client’s needs.

Support. Whether it’s a system or a process, once we complete implementation, we put in place a feedback loop to ensure that the solution meets the client’s expectations. Doing so allows us to manage issues, questions, updates, and requests for changes in a timely and efficient fashion. Having a support channel in place is essential to the ongoing success of the solution as it becomes a mainstay for a client.      

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So what does the F.O.C.U.S. process mean for you, a potential client? In short, it means if you work with us, there won’t be any surprises. Because we focus on solutions and have a formal delivery methodology, you will have a better idea of what exactly you are getting, for how much, and when you can expect it.

About Lydon Solutions

Lydon Solutions has been delivering customized and compelling solutions for our clients since our founding in 2009. From integrating a range of technologies and solutions to providing rock-solid hosting in Microsoft Azure, all the way through to the development of our own React-based Construction Viz Apps for SharePoint and Office 365, we strive to provide the best advice, direction, and strategy at every turn. We don’t just do IT; we provide information management solutions. Our team knows the construction industry. We have boots on the ground, a can-do attitude to tackle big challenges, and a commitment to delivering world-class solutions. 

Stay tuned for posts on how we can help your company stay ahead of the times.