M.E.R.I.T. Methodology

Selecting and implementing a Content Management Solution is a complex process, and to be successful, you need two things: strong project management and a proven methodology. Our skilled project managers will work with you to keep your project on time and under budget. One of the tools we use to accomplish this task is our 4-stage M.E.R.I.T. methodology, which is structured, yet flexible enough to adapt to your unique requirements.

1. Business Analysis

The first step in any knowledge or content management project is to assess the current situation, its challenges and set the stage for the rest of the initiative. The business analysis phase includes:

• Auditing organizational content/knowledge needs
• Stakeholder interviews
• Defining business objectives
• Creating process maps
• Building a cost justification analysis and business case
  
  

2. Strategic Design

Once a solid understanding of your organization is developed, goals are established, and costs are justified, it is time to move on to the strategic design phase, which includes:

• Identifying requirements
• Designing models and metadata
• Structuring materials
• Measuring the content lifecycle
• Performing content audits
• Developing information models
• Assigning RCOs® (Reusable Content Objects)
• Building templates
• Establishing standards
• Mapping technology requirements
• Assisting with RFP construction and vendor procurement
  
  

3. Development/Project Management

The development phase of your content/knowledge management project will include:

• Designing your content workflow
• Migrating existing content
• Staging technology implementation and integration
• Testing usability
  
  

4. Deployment

The final stage of your content/knowledge management project is to verify that all product deliverable requirements have been met, you are satisfied with the outcomes, and that your organization will properly use the processes and systems that were created during the initiative. That is why the deployment phase includes:

• Internal marketing to build awareness and support
• End-user training
• Instituting efficient change management practices