Thanks to continuous improvements and the emergence of a wide range of tools, coupled with a heightened focus on best practices, things are moving faster than ever in the business world, particularly in tech and the Salesforce ecosystem. However, organizations striving to stay ahead are increasingly turning to custom software development solutions to drive even greater efficiency, enhance security, and ensure seamless integration of their internal systems.
This is where DevOps comes into play. At its core, DevOps is a philosophy that emphasizes the integration of development and IT operations, automation of routine tasks, and fostering collaboration. The ultimate goal? Delivering better, more secure software solutions in the shortest possible time through a continuous feedback loop between development and operations.
At Lane Four, we embrace the DevOps approach to deliver top-notch projects for our clients. Typically, we utilize Agile development methodologies like Kanban and Scrum, known for their flexibility and efficiency. However, we also recognize when a Waterfall development approach is more suited to a client’s needs. Here’s a closer look at how we determine and manage our DevOps projects to ensure the best outcomes based on client engagement.
Types of Client Engagements
Understanding the nature of our clients’ development requests is crucial in setting up and managing a project that requires custom development. We categorize our projects into three tiers based on their size, complexity, and budget. This categorization helps us allocate the right resources and expertise to each project. Management assigns a project to a specific tier before handing it over to a Delivery Lead. If a project’s scope changes significantly, moving it to a different tier requires approval from higher up. Our approach will be determined by one of two factors:
- Following the client’s existing process
- Recommending and selecting an internal process
Following a Client’s Existing Process
Many of our clients may already have a dedicated team of Salesforce developers and an established DevOps process. In such cases, our role can vary. Sometimes, we integrate seamlessly as an extension of- or another team within the client’s organization to execute a specific project. Other times, we step in to provide additional development support temporarily. In both scenarios, understanding and adhering to the client’s existing process is priority.
Before committing to a project, the client’s DevOps process is often reviewed and approved by our Director of Delivery. Once approved, we align our efforts with the client’s established procedures, setting aside our internal practices to ensure consistency and cohesion within the client’s development environment.
Lane Four Selecting the Process Internally
For clients without in-house Salesforce development resources, Lane Four typically has full control over the DevOps process. This autonomy allows us to implement the most effective and efficient practices tailored to the project’s needs, as the client is primarily concerned with the final outcome rather than the process.
Our Top Priority Remains the Same
Regardless of the engagement type, as with any cross-functional work we take on, we believe clear communication and coordination will be the true drivers to getting things done well and in a timely fashion. Our Delivery Leads work closely with clients and stakeholders from both sides to ensure everyone understands the chosen process and their roles and responsibilities within it. This collaborative approach again not only streamlines the development process but also builds trust and transparency with anyone on the client side.
By following their existing process, clients ensure that their development workflows remain consistent. This familiarity helps their internal teams to maintain productivity and reduces the learning curve that might come with a new process. Alternatively, if Lane Four is to recommend a solution and DevOps process, we will derive the most appropriate plan while demonstrating our commitment to Client-Centered solution design.
At Lane Four, our commitment to remaining flexible and client-centric even within our DevOps approach ensures that each project is managed optimally, tailored to the unique requirements of our clients. Whether following a client’s established process or selecting one internally, by understanding and categorizing development requests effectively, we set the stage for successful project outcomes by involving the most appropriate stakeholders and high-quality operational best practices and approaches, hopefully leading to satisfied clients. Ready to elevate your software development process? Contact us today to discuss how Lane Four can tailor our DevOps approach to meet your unique needs and drive your projects to success.
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