STEPS™ is an evolutionary prototyping development methodology that is fully adapted to modern graphical environments. The acronym stands for STepwise Evolutionary Prototyping System. The STEPS™ methodology is used by Abilisys to provide systems that meet user requirements in manageable stages, each of which is complete in itself and provides a deliverable item to the client.
The lifestyle of the software is a circular progression of five steps : feasibility, requirements, development, implementation and maintenance.
Prototyping allows software systems to be developed quickly with the users working with Abilisys as the project progresses.
STEPS™ employs an iterative design process. This cycle occurs rapidly and repeatedly over the course of a project. Iterative design allows for constant adjustments to end-user needs and reduces the time and cost of application development.
The development process can only be successful with a systematic approach to project management. Abilisys has adopted a method of project management that provides an organised but flexible control framework within which an IT system can be correctly specified, designed, developed and installed.
STEPS™ uses a practical modular approach which divides a project into several modules. Each module is designed and implemented individually, yet managed as a component of the complete system. As modules are completed, the project is re-evaluated and its goals re-assessed. Modularisation provides a natural process to review a project and lets users directly participate in system design.
User participation is an integral part of the STEPS™ methodology. It is encouraged at every stage of the software lifecycle. This results in a closer match to the users’ needs and provides users with a sense of ownership. During development, user participation helps with interface construction. User evaluation and testing keeps application development on track. This direct user involvement smoothes system introduction, reduces training costs, and increases total system use.
STEPS™ makes it possible to develop a system that meets the user requirements and is delivered on time and within budget.
