CCI’s staff has completed over 20 bank software evaluation and installation projects to include three complete deposit and two complete loan system conversions. CCI has the ability to manage a complete software project lifecycle or a selected segment of the lifecycle you believe requires special assistance or support. We can support either a traditional software evaluation and installation approach or a Project Management Institute (PMI) approach to software development. Our methodologies and the proper infusion of your staff into the processes are the two critical components to success.

The correct software applications lead to simple and inexpensive processes that best fit the organization’s needs and infrastructure. Selecting the software that best fits your needs and infrastructure is one of management’s most critical tasks. The wrong software can make the simplest tasks cumbersome and expensive and may negatively affect customers and the organization for years to come.

To insure proper software decisions are made we utilize a formal, structured approach during the evaluation process. Six major areas are evaluated:

• Current Requirements
• Future Requirements
• Ease of Implementation
• Past Organization Direction
• Vendor Support
• Cost

Each requirement or variable identified within the six major areas is assigned a “weight” to insure the most important elements in the decision process receive the greatest consideration. Limitations placed on the number of variables that may be assigned the highest weights assure an even distribution of the weights. The software package achieving the highest score typically, but not always, best suits your organization’s needs. If a Request for Proposal (RFP) is required we can assist you in its development.

The installation approach you are most comfortable with and the one that best coincides with the vendor’s installation plan are the deciding factors determining which installation approach is utilized. For major software packages, the vendor often has a detailed software installation/conversion project plan they follow that is not typically made available to the customer. It is critical to the success of the project that the bank’s and the vendor’s approaches coincide when the vendor is following a project plan.

Project Phases for traditional and PMI projects are:

Traditional Software Installation Phases   PMI Software Development Phases

The damage a poorly managed software installation or conversion has on a bank’s credibility is both deep and lasting. It can result in the loss of customers, a loss of revenue and the loss of potential or existing customers resulting from word of mouth, poor customer relations or service for an extended period of time. Our methods and experience will minimize your exposure to these common pitfalls.