Best Practices: Building Custom Mobile Solutions

[Former Member]

There are many ways a mobile solution can be organized and built, but there are some founding factors that should be a part of any approach to ensure a mobile solution is created effectively. This iterative, collaborative process seems to be sequential, but when put into context, it is easy to see how the process becomes more of a cyclic approach and will thoroughly cover all aspects.

Based on research and expertise, the SAP Services organization has collaboratively identified best practices for enterprise mobility and the four steps of building custom mobile solutions, which includes: Envision, Design, Develop, and Deploy.

Here is a brief overview of the steps and process.

Envision is the first step. Envisioning requires a collaboration of perspectives and input to determine the problem/opportunity to be addressed. It requires an evaluation of the end-users habits and devices, and the specific measurable results to be accomplished once implemented. It is key to begin here with the question, “how can an enterprise systematically stay ahead of the curve by identifying opportunities for custom mobile solutions?”

The design and develop steps come next and are completed in parallel and iteratively.

Design requires working closely with process owners and end-users to deliver what they want and need, and working with UX professionals and designers to create a workable solution. The design step works to prioritize the functionality and ketch the user interface (UI), employ sketches and wireframes, and provide a visual representation of the solution. The blueprints, assets and specifications guide the development.

Development is actually writing the code and programming the solution for intended devices and operating systems. During development, engineers architect the solution and integrate with back end applications to ensure seamless integration and accurate data transfer. The overarching goal is to build secure, scalable solutions that are functional and perform well.

Deploy is the final stage once occurs once the design and development steps are completed and the solution meets all business and performance needs. Deployment provides authorized users with access to the solution, proper training, and support. During this stage, it is key to ensure the solution is adopted and used with minimal disruption to business units, end-users, and customers.

The SAP Mobility Design Center is dedicated to this process and has the expertise to guide a company through envisioning to deployment, and beyond.  For more details on mobile solutions, refer to the Building Custom Mobile Solutions for Enterprises – Lessons Learned and Best Practices whitepaper.