Clarity Method®

closerlook’s Clarity Method® is a proven process for the collaborative development of integrated technology solutions.

In 2000, closerlook constructed a robust development methodology based on the Software Engineering Institute’s Key Practices model to incorporate analysis, design, construction, deployment and evaluation into one collaborative, transparent approach. The Clarity Method® breaks the complex strategy, design, and software-development process into cycles, and divides those cycles into phases, creating a system of key milestones and smaller deliverables that ensures we deliver a high-performing final product on time and on budget. With the Clarity Method®, you know precisely what we’re doing, when it will be finished, and what it will cost, and you have opportunities in every phase to offer feedback that keeps the product in line with your vision.

The Clarity Method®

Solution Analysis

At the start of the process, we learn everything we can about your business goals, identify your most valuable and growable customers, and create a communication strategy to reach them. [more] Then, with your input, we begin developing site maps and low-fidelity prototypes (wireframes) for your project. Other key deliverables in the Solution Analysis cycle may include use cases and non-functional requirements and project placement.

Design

With the initial planning for your project complete, we begin to create its look, feel, and content to reflect your brand message and the technology to achieve your business goals. [more] In the Design cycle, our creative team presents visual-design-treatment options, and modifies them based on your feedback until a creative direction has been approved. At the same time, our technology team works simultaneously to design the technical architecture of your project. The simultaneous development of visual and technical design ensures that each supports the other in achieving the objectives you envision for the final program. Other deliverables in the Design cycle may include functional specifications, a high-level copy platform, a design style guide, and technical prototypes.

Construction

Once we have the blueprint approved, we can start to build. [more] We track each phase of construction against the original business goals and the creative and technical specifications. As in every phase, we solicit your feedback so that the execution matches your evolving vision. Deliverables in the Construction cycle include copywriting and program testing results.

Deployment

We launch your program with the support it needs to achieve your objectives. [more] If the program is web-based, closerlook will manage each phase of deployment to ensure that your program resides in a technological environment that enables full functionality and high performance. Whether or not we host your application on our servers, we make sure that the caretakers of the program know how to maintain and support it. Deliverables at this stage may include release documentation, packaging, and change-management controls.

Evaluate and Evolve

In this final but crucial cycle of the Clarity Method®, we use relationship marketing and monitoring tools to gather user feedback, assess performance, and provide feedback to improve the overall communication program. [more] By analyzing results against the original goals established for the product, we measure the project’s success. This assessment proves particularly valuable for ongoing programs and applications eyeing future enhancements. Deliverables in the Evaluate and Evolve cycle may include usability analysis and enhancement, technical analysis and enhancement, and customer relationship management reports.