The activities itemized below can be carried out as the first phase of a software project, preceding the [Development Phase]. The main objective is to provide the customer with a reliable and competent technology advice that provides an optimal approach to implementation and deployment of the envisioned software system.
Business-case analysis and conceptualization of a software solution.
Business and technical requirements co-development.
Feasibility study, technology research, solution prototyping.
Blueprinting, preparation of a complete technical specification.
Software project planning, management.
For most software projects, at least some of these activities are carried out in order to have reliable project budget and timeframe estimations.