Every project must have a clearly defined plan for success. The project plan brings together a schedule, team roles, actionable tasks, and a process for delivery. Formal milestones are used to set goals and monitor progress.
Microsoft Solution Framework (MSF) - MSF is a flexible iterative framework using a risk-driven model that defines team roles and a cyclic process.
Risks are identified early, monitored continually, and mitigated with high priority. MSF is designed to prevent risks from turning into showstoppers.
Rational Unified Process (RUP) - RUP is a complete framework filled with detailed processes, documents, and deliverables. While remaining flexible, RUP provides a well-traveled path to success.
Like MSF, RUP uses an iterative risk-driven approach. RUP covers everything from gathering requirements to testing.
Unified Modeling Language (UML) - UML is a set of definitions and rules for creating various relational and process models. Specific formats and entities for diagrams and other documentation are included. UML is especially useful in providing clear communication between business analysts and technical teams.
Microsoft Project - Project is a full project management tool. Among its features is a Gantt chart manager that facilitates project scheduling and tracking including dependencies.
Microsoft Visio - Visio is a general-purpose graphical tool used to create graphs, charts, and many other types of diagrams. With its large library of entities and connectors, Visio can be used to produce Gantt charts, flow charts, process diagrams, software architecture, and network topology diagrams, plus entity-relationship diagrams for UML models.
