Our Implementation Process
How we put world-class analytics capability in your hands.
We build analytics infrastructure using a phased methodology. This approach lets you see real results before committing to a long-term engagement. Each phase has a clear go/no-go decision point so you stay in control.
The process consists of three phases:
- Vision Phase — produces an Analytics Roadmap that maps out the features and capabilities you want
- Prototype Phase — builds a working report or dashboard so you can experience the technology hands-on
- Build & Operate Phase — ongoing development and maintenance of your analytics infrastructure
Visioning Phase
Decide how to use analytics to drive high-performing teams, delight customers, and impress investors.
Activities
- Complete Visioning Workbook
- View and critique demos
- Prioritize goals
- Fill Roadmap template
- Review cost estimates
- Make go/no-go decision
Output
- Visioning Workbook
- Analytics Roadmap
- Cost estimates & Business Case
The Analytics Roadmap
The main output of the Visioning Phase is the Analytics Roadmap. It serves three purposes: articulating the features and capabilities you want, enabling Metric-X to estimate costs, and determining whether the business case is viable.
Prototype Phase
Get hands-on exposure to the technology. Visualize your data without paying for licenses or making a long-term commitment.
Activities
- Select prototype solution
- Build partial data warehouse
- Connect to property management system
- Build report or dashboard
- Client provides feedback
- Go/No-Go decision
Output
- Partial data warehouse
- Working reports/dashboards
Build & Operate
Build out the capabilities on the roadmap and maintain a fresh, reliable data warehouse for your organization.
Activities
- Operate data warehouse
- Build new reports and features
- Add new system data
- Test and accept releases
- Utilize analytics for business value
- Monthly review meetings
Output
- Data warehouse content
- Reports and dashboards
- Roadmap revisions
- Training materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Why a phased approach?
The phased approach reduces risk for both parties. You get to experience the technology and see real results before committing to a long-term engagement. Each phase has a clear go/no-go decision point, so you stay in control of the investment.
What if I just want one report?
If your need is straightforward — a single report or dashboard from a single data source — we can often skip the Visioning Phase and go straight to a prototype. We will discuss your needs and recommend the best approach.
What is a data warehouse?
A data warehouse is a central repository that collects data from multiple source systems (property management, accounting, CRM, etc.) and organizes it for reporting and analysis. It is the foundation that makes reliable, repeatable analytics possible.
Why do you charge for the Visioning Phase?
The Visioning Phase requires significant expertise and effort from our senior consultants. The output — a detailed Roadmap with cost estimates — has real value whether or not you proceed with Metric-X. It gives you a clear plan you can execute with any vendor.
Can we skip the Prototype phase?
Yes. If you have high confidence in the approach and want to move quickly, you can go directly from Visioning to Build & Operate. However, most clients find the Prototype phase valuable for validating assumptions.
Can Prototype costs apply to future development?
Yes. Work done during the Prototype phase (data warehouse design, ETL development, report building) carries forward into the Build & Operate phase. You are not paying twice for the same work.
What is data infrastructure?
Data infrastructure refers to the complete technology stack that supports analytics: databases, ETL processes, data warehouses, reporting tools, and dashboards. Here is a typical architecture:
Ready to Get Started?
Let’s discuss how analytics can drive results for your business.