Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step User Manual

Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT
DYNAMICS SURE STEP
Objectives
The objectives are:
•
Define the purpose of Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step.
•
Describe the value of the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
methodology.
•
Describe the benefits of using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Describe the components of the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
model.
•
Describe who uses the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and during
what phases of an implementation project.
•
Differentiate between Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and other
Microsoft frameworks.
•
Identify the components that comprise the Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step platform and interface.
•
To learn how to navigate Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
To learn how to install Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
Introduction
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is a comprehensive implementation methodology
that provides prescriptive guidance, project management library, tools, and
templates that Microsoft partners can use to implement Microsoft Dynamics
products for their customers.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is available to all Microsoft partners for Microsoft
Dynamics. It can be downloaded from PartnerSource and is easy to install,
configure, and use.
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What is Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step?
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is a client-based tool that provides a systematic
methodology for implementing Microsoft Dynamics solutions.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step supports the following Microsoft Dynamics
products:
•
Microsoft Dynamics® CRM
•
Microsoft Dynamics® AX
•
Microsoft Dynamics® GP
•
Microsoft Dynamics® NAV
•
Microsoft Dynamics® SL
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides detailed guidance for the complete
implementation life cycle. It consists of field-tested implementation best
practices based on the implementation experience derived by Microsoft
Consulting Services and Microsoft Dynamics Partners.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step includes project management guidance and tools
integrated throughout the implementation methodology. Therefore, Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step provides guidance on how to manage implementation
projects and how to perform the functional and technical tasks comprising the
core of the Microsoft Dynamics implementation process.
The most useful components of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step are the tools and
templates that it provides to create the technical and project management
deliverables produced during an implementation project. Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step provides a rich set of Microsoft® Office templates that are used to
create implementation deliverables. Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step also provides
many process flow diagrams that visually illustrate each phase in the
implementation process; also use Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to browse the
methodology to display specific information about implementation tasks.
Additionally, you can use Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to create and manage
projects within the client-based tool. Use these user-defined projects to customize
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step so that it can support customer-specific
implementation tools. Add tools and templates, and add or modify tasks, process,
and guidance so that the methodology more closely supports a specific practice
or industry.
The Value of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Methodology
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is an end-to-end, scalable implementation
methodology. It provides a model based on best practices, tools, and templates to
help partners and Microsoft Services perform successful implementations of
Microsoft Dynamics solutions. The implementation methodology model includes
implementation guidance, industry focused, product-specific content, and project
management strategies and guidance.
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The following list identifies the key attributes of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step:
•
End-to-end methodology
•
Scalable
•
Systematic
•
Modular
•
Repeatable
•
Industry focused
•
Partner focused
End-to-end Methodology
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step addresses all phases of an implementation project,
from the sales phase with diagnostics, planning and analysis, to design,
development, deployment, and operations. Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
provides guidance for optimizing or upgrading an existing Microsoft Dynamics
deployment.
Scalable
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is scalable:
•
Utilize the methodology to implementation projects for small
businesses, mid-market companies, and enterprise customers.
•
Configure Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to support a specific
Microsoft Dynamics product and industry or vertical solutions.
•
Configure Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to support different types
of implementation projects, such as Rapid, Standard, Enterprise, or
Agile.
•
Configure Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to support other types of
projects, such as Upgrade or Optimization Offerings.
Systematic
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides a systematic, consistent, and repeatable
approach to implementing Microsoft Dynamics products. The model has a
number of phases, with each phase divided into phase specific processes or cross
phase processes. The processes include the activities or steps to follow. In most
cases, the results of activities are documented in a deliverable. These deliverables
typically form the basis for subsequent activities in the same phase or a
subsequent phase. Therefore, the output of one activity or phase provides the
input into the next activity or phase.
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Modular
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step supports a modular approach to implementation
projects. This capability allows partners to focus on specific phases, offerings,
deliverables, or project management disciplines so that they can best address the
specific needs and requirements of an implementation project.
Industry Focused
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step references a compelling suite of technologies and
solutions to address the customer's industry-specific requirements. Delivered
through a network of channel partners providing specialized services, these
adaptable business solutions and strong industry capabilities provide robust endto-end enterprise solutions for organizations in key industries and related vertical
segments.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step also provides diagnostic and implantation
(Analysis through Operation) guidance at a horizontal solution level. Partners can
build on the standard functionality to deliver Line of Business (LOB)
applications across multiple industries.
Partner Focused
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step helps partners take advantage of their strengths,
use consistent and repeatable processes, and collaborate among the consultants in
the organization. This approach allows partners to shift the balance between
implementation revenue and business consulting revenue. Much of the content,
guidance, project management strategies, tools, and templates are derived from
the lessons learned in real-world implementation projects conducted by partners
and Microsoft consultants.
Using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step can also help partners manage and reduce
the risk associated with implementation projects. The clearly defined set of
processes and deliverables, built-in project management processes, including risk
management tasks, and the systematic approach, will help reduce the risk in the
projects.
The consistent approach to implementation supported by Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step also allows partners to work together on the same projects because
each partner can use the same methodology. This is also the case when partners
work together with the Microsoft Consulting Services organization.
Benefits of Using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides the following benefits to Microsoft
Dynamics partners and the Microsoft Services organization:
•
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Repeatable, consistent methodology and processes that provide a
better implementation experience for partners and customers.
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•
An implementation framework that allows multiple partners working
on the same project to "speak a common language" and work
together toward a common implementation methodology.
•
Flexible methodology that can be customized for Microsoft
Dynamics products, size of customer organization, implementation
type, and vertical markets.
•
Integrated project management processes, tools, disciplines, and best
practices.
•
Decision Accelerator Offerings to help partners decrease the sales
cycle.
•
Optimization Offerings to aid partners in reducing risk and
improving customer satisfaction.
•
Incorporation of implementation best practices from Microsoft and
partners.
•
Reduced risk for consulting companies and their partners.
•
Increased partner productivity and profitability.
•
Greater customer satisfaction.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Model
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model defines a standardized, phased-based
approach to implementation projects. Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is flexible
enough to use in many different scenarios and will help to meet different
customer needs and improve the implementation experience.
The implementation model that forms the basis of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
consists of the following:
•
Project Types
•
Phases
•
Processes
•
Deliverables and milestones
•
Industry/vertical solutions
•
Cross-industry/horizontal solutions
•
Decision accelerator offerings
•
Cross phase processes
•
Optimization offerings
•
Project management processes and disciplines
•
Consultant and customer roles
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Project Types
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model can be distinguished into five separate
Project Types:
•
Enterprise
•
Standard
•
Rapid
•
Upgrade
•
Agile
Each project consists of a set of defined phases, cross phases and Optimization
Offerings which represents a standardized approach for implementing Microsoft
Dynamics Solutions.
Phases
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model divides a full Microsoft Dynamics
implementation project into six primary phases:
•
Diagnostic
•
Analysis
•
Design
•
Development
•
Deployment
•
Operation
Each phase in the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model consists of a set of
defined activities and tasks. The result of the work performed in an activity is
usually documented in a deliverable that provides guidance and direction in later
steps in the implementation process.
Processes
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model identifies the steps that are required to
complete the activities and tasks in each phase. This allows partners to follow a
systematic step-by-step approach to implementing Microsoft Dynamics products.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step presents the processes for each phase in two
ways:
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•
A hierarchical list of activities, tasks, and subtasks; presented in the
tree structure of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Process flow diagrams presented as Microsoft® Visio® diagrams
that present a visual representation of the activities in each phase of
the methodology.
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In both cases, each step in the process is hyperlinked to the page that contains
specific information about the activity or task.
Deliverables and Milestones
The work performed during the phases in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step results
in creating deliverables that document the decisions, scope, and plan-of-action
for a phase, activity, or task. The deliverables that result from one activity or
phase usually provide input and guidance to the next activity in the phase or the
next phase in the methodology.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step guides the project team through the activities and
tasks that are required to create the deliverables that help to conduct and manage
implementation projects. Common deliverables include:
•
Architecture assessment
•
Project plan
•
Functional requirements
•
Go-Live plan/checklist
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step also provides partners with milestones for each
phase, so that the progress of the project can be tracked. Example milestones
include:
•
Customer accepts the Statement of Work
•
Formal Project Kick Off Meeting
•
Performance Testing which completes the introduction page for each
phase in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and lists the deliverables and
milestones produced during the phase. The commonly used tools,
templates, and links are found in the Tools, Templates and Links
section on each activity.
Industry/Vertical Solutions
A vertical solution is designed to deliver solutions to address the industryspecific requirements of a business. The goal is the foundation on which partners
can build on the standard approach. The goal is delivered through a network of
channel partners providing specialized services and end-to-end enterprise
solutions for organizations in key industries (manufacturing, distribution, retail,
professional services and across the public sector).
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Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides diagnostic and implementation guidance
at an Industry level and at a vertical and subvertical (or solution) level. Examples
of the subset of the Industry-Vertical breakdowns include the following:
•
Process Industries
•
o Food and Beverage
o Chemicals
o Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals
Public Sector
o
o
o
o
Government
Health
Education
Non-Profit Organizations
Cross Industry/Horizontal Solutions
The Cross Industry/Horizontal Solutions are intended to address industry-generic
common business processes or needs by which partners can build on the standard
functionality to deliver Line of Business (LOB) applications across multiple
industries. Purchasing, Payroll and Banking applications are examples of
horizontal solutions.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step can be used to help determine the appropriate
Microsoft Dynamics products and associated horizontal extensions that can be
used to best meet the customer's needs through diagnostic and implementation
guidance at a horizontal solutions level. Cross Relationship Management (XRM)
is the only cross-industry and horizontal area addressed in this release of
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, however, all three of the following areas are
intended to be supported in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step with access to
detailed guidance and valuable tools, templates, and links:
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•
XRM - with Microsoft Dynamics CRM as the platform:
Generally consists of Relationships and Interactions, Business
Process Driven and Collaborative efforts.
•
Microsoft Dynamics - SharePoint:A family of Microsoft enterprise
portals used to aggregate SharePoint sites, information and
applications into a single portal.
•
Contact Center Solution: This solution helps an organization's
contact center meet its high-level business goals by making the most
out of every customer interaction and empowers the contact center
agents with the right set of tools to quickly and precisely resolve or
escalate issues.
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Decision Accelerator Offerings
The seven optional Decision Accelerator offerings defined in the Diagnostic
phase of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step are designed to assist the customer with
their decision making process for the implementation of a Microsoft Dynamics
solution. A partner can deploy one or more of the Decision Accelerator offerings
to support a variety of customer requirements.
Partners can select one or more Decision Accelerator offerings that best describe
the specific needs of the customer and allows them in their due diligence process
for the selection of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) or customer
relationship management (CRM) solution.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step supports the following Decision Accelerator
offerings:
•
Requirements and Process Review: Review current processes to
determine the requirements for the future state.
•
Fit Gap and Solution Blueprint: Determine degree of fit with the
Microsoft Dynamics solution.
•
Proof of Concept: Validate requirements with customer's sample
data.
•
Business Systems Architecture Assessment: Confirm the
architectural design for the Microsoft Dynamics solution.
•
Scoping Assessment: Estimate high-level cost and resource plan to
deploy the Microsoft Dynamics solution.
•
Business Case: Prepare a business case for implementation of the
Microsoft Dynamics solution.
•
Upgrade Assessment: Review current release of the Microsoft
Dynamics solution, to ascertain the best approach to upgrade to a
subsequent release.
Optimization Offerings
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides seven optimization offerings to use to
perform a thorough independent review of an implementation. Optimization
offerings are designed to help reduce risk and improve customer satisfaction for
complex blended engagements that include consultants from several partners.
The Optimization offerings provide:
•
Functional design guidance for reviewing the proposed design for
business and industry solution fit.
•
Technical design guidance for reviewing the proposed technical
design for performance, scalability, integration with other systems
and third party software.
•
Proactive quality management with access to expert technology
specialists at appropriate checkpoints in the Sure Step
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implementation to mitigate integration risk across the complete
technology stack.
There are seven Optimization offerings; employ more than one offering for a
given engagement, if desired:
•
Architecture Review: Reviews the overall architecture and
infrastructure to meet the customer's business requirements.
•
Design Review: Reviews the design of the customizations and
integration between Microsoft Dynamics AX and Microsoft
Dynamics CRM with existing systems based on various scenarios.
•
Customization Review: Reviews the custom code to improve
performance, increase stability, improve security, and reduce costs.
•
Performance Review: Reviews performance impact of the design
and code based on guidance, tools, methods, and best practices.
•
Health Check: Delivers proactive problem identification and
suggested resolution of issues.
•
Upgrade Review: Provides guidance to customers upgrading their
current implementation of Microsoft Dynamics.
•
Project Governance and Delivery: Provides proactive full project
lifecycle governance and delivery execution support for the
Microsoft Dynamics implementation project through regular
assessment and provision of findings and recommendations.
Each Optimization is an umbrella offering with more detailed offerings listed
under the tree structure.
Cross Phase Processes
A cross phase process is a group of related activities that span multiple
implementation phases in a specific project scenario. The Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step model provides step-by-step guidance for important cross-phase
processes by providing specific views that include the following:
•
All the tasks that are performed.
•
The phase in which each task is performed.
•
Deliverables produced.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step has nine cross phase processes, grouped into three
further areas.
•
Organization - The Organization cross phase processes include:
o
o
o
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Program Management
Training
Business Process Analysis
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Solution - The Solution cross phase processes include:
o
o
o
•
Requirements and Configuration
Custom Coding
Quality and Testing
Technology - The Technology cross phase processes include:
o
o
o
Infrastructure
Integration and Interfaces
Data Migration
Project Management Processes and Disciplines
Project management activities and tasks are embedded throughout the phases and
activities of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step. Following the project management
best practices integrated in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step can help support the
success of Microsoft Dynamics implementation projects.
The implementation methodology also provides detailed how-to information and
best practices for the following project management disciplines:
•
Risk management
•
Scope management
•
Issue management
•
Time and cost management
•
Resource management
•
Communication management
•
Quality management
•
Procurement management
•
Sales management
Roles Supported by Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Many different job roles are typically involved in Microsoft Dynamics
implementation projects. The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model identifies
and provides guidance for the consulting and customer roles that are involved in
specific phases, activities, and tasks in an implementation project. Examples of
the primary roles supported by Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step include the
following:
Consulting roles
Customer roles
Project manager
Business decision maker
Engagement manager
Project manager
Solution architect
IT manager
Application consultant
Key user
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Consulting roles
Customer roles
Development consultant
End-user
Technology consultant
Customer Executive Sponsor
Test Lead
Subject Matter Expert
Customer Test Lead
Some consultant and customer companies might have only one person perform
the functions of multiple roles. For example, in small companies, some people
will function in multiple roles. By defining and supporting the roles involved in
implementation projects, Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is scalable for use by
small and large partner organizations and customers.
Who Uses Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step?
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is designed to support all roles participating in a
Microsoft Dynamics implementation project. In the progression of an
implementation project, different roles are more engaged during specific phases,
and less engaged in other phases. The project manager, while busiest during the
start and early phases of the project is consistently engaged throughout the
project.
In addition to project managers, engagement managers and team leads will focus
heavily on the guidance contained in the Diagnostic and Analysis methodology
phases and in the Offerings section. However, they must be aware of the content
and activities contained in the Design, Development, Deployment, and Operation
phases because they will be managing the work undertaken in those phases.
Application, functional, and technical consultants who deliver the solution must
focus heavily on the Design, Development, Deployment, and Operation phases.
Application and functional consultants will also be intricately involved in the
Analysis phase, driving the finalization of the deliverables which feed into the
Design documents. These consultants also have to familiarize themselves with
the offerings supported by Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and they can provide
input into selecting the offering that best meets a customer's requirements.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Model and Other Microsoft
Frameworks
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model incorporates some activities and best
practices from other Microsoft methodology frameworks. Although it is not
intended to replace these frameworks, Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is designed
specifically for implementing Microsoft Dynamics solutions.
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The complete implementation life cycle supported by Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step overlaps the following Microsoft frameworks:
•
Microsoft Solution Sales Process (MSSP) provides a framework for
selling Microsoft solutions.
•
Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF) provides a framework for
technical and software development projects.
•
Microsoft Operations Framework (MOF) provides a framework for
planning, operating, delivering, and managing an existing Microsoft
solution.
Because the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model defines an end-to-end process,
from planning and diagnostics through operation and optimization, it corresponds
to the other Microsoft frameworks in the following ways:
•
Processes in the Diagnostic phase correspond with phases in MSSP.
•
Processes in the Analysis, Design, Development, and Deployment
phases correspond to the processes in MSF.
•
Processes in the Operation phase correspond to processes in MOF.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Platform Structure
The Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step model is presented within a client-based tool
that includes a Reference view and a Documents view of the methodology. Use
the Reference view to navigate through the phases, processes, and activities of
the model. The documents view provides users a documents-centric view of the
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step methodology across phases.
Tree Structure
The tree structure in the navigation pane of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
contains the following nodes:
•
Sure Step
•
Diagnostic Phase - Decision Accelerators and Activities
•
Project Types and Implementation Phases
•
Optimization Offerings
•
Project Management Library
•
Roles
•
Additional Resources
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Filters
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step supports all Microsoft Dynamics products and
multiple service offerings. Manage this flexibility by using the filters provided to
configure Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step so that it corresponds to the
requirements of specific implementation projects.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides the following filters:
•
Solution: Use this filter to display general product guidance or
guidance for a specific vertical or horizontal solution.
•
Product: Use this to display the content that is relevant to a specific
Microsoft Dynamics product. When configuring this filter, Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step displays general content plus the content
relevant to the selected Microsoft Dynamics product. Product
specific information is displayed in the following locations:
o
o
•
In the Tools and Templates box on an activity page.
In a product-specific section on selected activity pages.
Project Type: Use this filter to display content relevant to one the
specific project types: Standard, Enterprise, Rapid, Upgrade, or
Agile.
NOTE: By default, the filters are not selected after installation. This results in
displaying content for all Microsoft Dynamics products and all project types.
After selecting a filter, the new selection is maintained until it is changed, or
upon closing Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
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Activities, Tasks, and Subtasks
The activities and tasks that comprise each phase in the methodology are
organized in a hierarchical structure. The first level under a phase is called an
activity. Activities consist of tasks, which comprise the second level of the
hierarchy. Some tasks are divided into subtasks, the third and lowest level in the
hierarchy. Each of these levels will have the standard activity page. The figure
shows an example of this three-level hierarchy.
FIGURE 1.1 ACTIVITIES, TASKS, AND SUBTASKS IN THE TREE
STRUCTURE
Activity Page Structure
Each activity, task, or subtask page consists of the following sections:
•
Tools, Templates and Links: Activity Pages display the
corresponding Templates for the activity in this section. Templates
can be Shell Templates, which can form the basis for the projects, or
Sample Templates, which illustrate the use of the template at a
fictitious company. Activity Pages also contain Tools or links, which
redirect to other content in the methodology or to an external site.
•
Purpose: Describes the purpose of the phase, activity, or task
described on the activity page.
•
Description: Defines the activity and how to perform the activity or
task.
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•
Pre-conditions: Identifies the items that must be completed or
deliverables that must exist before the activity can start. Because
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step defines a systematic approach to
implementation, the output of one phase, activity, or task becomes
the input into the next part of the process. Therefore, a post-condition
from one activity becomes the pre-condition for the next activity.
This is also the case for phases. Successfully completing one phase is
the pre-condition for the next phase.
•
Diagrams: Visio diagrams appear on introductory, activity, and
many task pages. These diagrams provide another way to illustrate
and navigate the methodology.
•
Roles: Identifies who is involved in the activity, as an owner, a
primary or optional participant.
Visio Process Diagrams
The introductory pages for each phase and activity (level 1) contain a Visio
diagram that illustrates that phase or activity in a flowchart. For a phase, the
Visio diagram shows the activities in that phase and any kind of decision tree
logic for the phase. For an activity, the Visio diagram shows the tasks and
decision logic that comprise that activity.
In addition, if a task (level 2) consists of subtasks (level 3) the activity page will
also include a Visio diagram that shows the subtasks. If a task has no subtasks, it
will not have a Visio diagram.
Using Visio Diagrams for Navigation
The shapes in the Visio diagram are hyperlinked to the corresponding page for
the task or activity. Visio diagrams provide an alternative way to browse through
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
Pan and Zoom
Each Visio diagram includes pan and zoom controls to increase or reduce the size
of the diagram. The pan and zoom feature includes a collapsible thumbnail
diagram and a movable red frame that is used to display different areas of the
flowchart.
Additional Resources
One of the key features of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is the resources it
provides. Use the Additional Resources node in the tree structure to access these
and other resources. This node contains the following components:
•
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Information Flow from Functional Requirements to Design
Documents: This diagram details the flow of information from the
Functional Requirements Document to the Solution Design
Document.
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Sure Step - SDM Alignment: This diagram shows the mapping of
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and Service Line Offerings to
Microsoft Services Delivery Methodology (SDM), Microsoft
Solutions Framework (MSF) and other related methodologies.
•
Onsite-Offshore Conceptual Work-Split across Implementation
Phases: This diagram shows a conceptual split of the work effort
between onsite and offshore resources for the deployment of a
Microsoft Dynamics solution using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Guidance for Partners and Customers on Project Type Selection:
This document provides guidance on which project type to choose.
•
Other Resource Links: This provides links to additional resources
available with respect to the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Methodology.
•
Environmental Management Accounting Project Guidance
Document: This document provides guidance on Environmental
Management Accounting so that partners can determine if their
project must adhere to best practice.
•
Product-Specific Resources: This section contains a node for each
Microsoft Dynamics product. Each node lists links to all the productspecific resources that are referenced throughout Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step. Use these links to quickly identify and access
all the product specific tools that are included in and linked to
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Glossary: This node contains a list of definitions for frequently used
implementation terms.
•
Sure Step Templates: This section provides document templates for
custom document creation, matching the standard Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step document look and feel.
Navigating Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step includes two ways to view and navigate through
the methodology and resources:
•
Reference view: This view provides a way for users to navigate
through the methodology. Its key features include:
o
o
o
o
•
Project Type and Product filters
Forward and Back buttons
Breadcrumbs
Collapsible window sections
Documents view: This view provides a way for users to view, filter,
and access project documents across all phases of the methodology.
Its key features include:
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•
Deliverables filter
•
Locate content in Sure Step
•
View documents for a single phase
Tabs
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step includes the Sure Step Methodology, Projects,
Resources, and Preferences tabs. Use each tab to perform particular tasks, such
as:
•
Sure Step Methodology: Use this tab to navigate through Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step using either the Reference View or the
Documents view.
•
Projects: Use this tab to create and manage projects. A project is a
collection of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step documents which can be
edited and are created for a specific Project Type and Microsoft
Dynamics Product. Customize each project to meet the requirements
of each customer, if necessary.
•
Resources: Use this tab to link to useful resources such as the
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step User Guide. Also use this tab to
check for updated versions of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Preferences: Use this tab to specify configuration preferences, such
as the storage location for projects, a customized logo for
deliverables, and the page that opens when Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step starts.
Reference View
There are a number of ways to browse the Reference view of Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step:
•
The tree structure: Expand the various nodes on the tree structure
and then click an item in the tree structure to browse to the
corresponding activity page.
•
Visio process diagrams, including the diagram on the Sure Step
page: Browse the content pages for phases, offerings, project
management disciplines, cross phase processes, and roles.
NOTE: Most diagrams in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step contain hyperlinks to
content pages.
•
•
•
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Solution, Project Type and Product filters: Use the Solution,
Project Type and Product filters to refine the displayed content.
Forward and Back buttons: Use these buttons to move through
hyperlinked content the same way as in a Web browser.
Breadcrumbs: Use Breadcrumbs to verify the current location and
quickly move to higher levels in the hierarchy.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
•
Collapsible window sections: Customize the Reference view by
collapsing the window sections that are not required.
Documents View
The Documents view provides many options for viewing documents across the
phases of Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Deliverables filter: Use this filter to view only the customer-facing
deliverables, or all deliverables.
•
Locate content in Sure Step: Right-click a document and choose
this option to switch to the corresponding Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step activity.
•
View documents for a single phase: By clicking the column
heading for a particular phase, view only the documents for that
phase.
NOTE: Open documents in read-only mode from the Documents view. To open
copies of these documents that can be edited use the Sure Step Projects tab.
Tools, Templates and Links
Open specific tools and templates in the methodology in the following ways:
•
The Tools, Templates and Links box on an activity page.
•
In the Additional Resources node in the tree structure, locate
templates in two ways, by:
o
o
Implementation phase
Alphabetical order
In addition, Project management templates are located under Overview in the
Project Management node in the tree structure.
Installing Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
For Microsoft partners who have enrolled in a Partner Service Plan for Microsoft
Dynamics, Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is available for installation from the
Microsoft Dynamics PartnerSource site.
Installation Requirements
Installing and using Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step requires the following:
•
Microsoft® Internet Explorer® 7 or Microsoft® Internet Explorer® 8
•
Microsoft®.NET® Framework
•
287 MB of hard disk space (for the full installation)
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
To use the templates and the other Microsoft® Office tools requires the
following:
•
Microsoft® Office 2007 or later versions
•
Microsoft® Office Project® 2007 or a later version
•
Microsoft® Office Visio® 2007 or a later version
o
The .NET Programmability Support option for Visio must be
installed.
NOTE: To support Microsoft® Office® 2003 users, Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step supports the Office 2003 Compatibility pack. Each document must be saved
as a Microsoft Office 2003 compatible document before it is sent to a customer.
For more information about how to install Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, refer
to the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step User Guide included in the download
package from PartnerSource.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Components
When installing Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, the following components will
install:
•
The static content: This consists of the HTML content, HTMLbased video diagrams, and templates displayed in the Internet
Explorer browser.
•
The source content: This consists of the source HTML files, Visio
files, and Microsoft Office templates. Use these components to
generate the static content. Source content is required for modifying
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
Installing Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step from
PartnerSource
From the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step download page on PartnerSource,
download the setup file and then run it from the local computer to install
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step and its components.
To install Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step:
1. Visit the following Web site:
https://mbs.microsoft.com/partnersource/partneressentials/
serviceplans/surestep.
2. Browse to the download page for Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
3. Download the Microsoft Dynamics Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
setup file to the local computer.
4. Double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
In the Microsoft Dynamics Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step- Installation
Wizard, use the information in the following table to complete the installation.
Setup
Wizard Page
Options
End-User
Agreement
Review and accept the terms of the License Agreement.
Destination
Folder
Select to install Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step in the default
location or select a different location.
Confirm
Installation
Click Next to start the installation.
NOTE: By default, the user guide is not installed and is a separate download
available on the download page for Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
Default Installation Folder
The default installation folder for Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step depends on the
operating system that is being used. The following table shows the default
installation folder for Windows® XP and Windows Vista®:
Operating
system
Default installation folder
Windows
XP
%systemdrive%:\Documents and Settings\All
Users\Documents\Microsoft Dynamics\SureStep
Windows
Vista
%systemdrive%:\Users\Public\Documents\Microsoft
Dynamics\SureStep
After Completing the Installation
After completing the installation, a new submenu called Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step will be available in the Start > All Programs > Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step menu. When all the components are installed, the following items are
installed:
•
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step: Click to start Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step, content is displayed in the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
client.
•
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step User Guide: The User Guide
provides an overview for using the Sure Step tool.
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
Lab 1.1 - Exploring Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
You are a Project Manager for your organization, researching the potential of
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step to help manage a range of projects of different
sizes, durations and types. You need to become familiar with the Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step interface.
Scenario
In this lab, you will:
•
Use a variety of navigation methods to browse Microsoft Dynamics
Sure Step.
•
Use additional features such as Visio diagrams, Additional
Resources, and the content filters to locate information.
In the first exercise in this lab, use the Reference view to navigate to content in
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
In the second exercise, explore the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step Document
view.
Exercise 1: Challenge Yourself!
Complete the following tasks by using the Reference view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step:
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step tree structure to navigate to the following
pages:
•
The GO LIVE activity in the Deployment Phase of a Standard and
Enterprise project
•
The Analysis Phase of an implementation project
•
The Business Analyst customer role
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step diagram on the Sure Step page to
navigate to the following pages:
•
The Rapid Implementation project type
•
The Analysis phase
•
The Project Manager consulting role
•
The Training cross phase process
Use the Visio diagrams to navigate to the Deployment Phase of an Enterprise
project.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Exercise 2: Challenge Yourself!
Complete the following tasks by using the Documents view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step:
•
Display the customer facing deliverables for all phases.
•
Display all documents for the Design phase.
•
Locate the Project Charter in the Development phase within the
Customer Facing Deliverables of the Document view.
•
Navigate to an activity that uses the Business Case Customer Report
document in the Microsoft Sure Step Dynamics Reference view.
Exercise 3: Challenge Yourself!
Complete the following tasks by using the tabs in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step:
•
View the list of existing projects.
•
View the languages installed and additional resources available for
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
•
Identify the location of the Project Repository.
Exercise 1: Need a Little Help?
Complete the following tasks by using the Reference view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step.
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step tree structure to navigate to the following
pages:
•
In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, ensure that you are in the
Reference view.
•
Use the tree structure on the left to navigate to the pages.
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step diagram on the Sure Step page to
navigate to the following pages:
•
In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, ensure that you are in the
Reference view.
•
Navigate to the Sure Step page.
•
Click the appropriate area of the Sure Step Methodology diagram to
navigate through the pages.
•
Use the back button to return to the Sure Step page.
Use the Visio diagrams to navigate to the Deployment Phase of an Enterprise
project.
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
•
In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, ensure that you are in the
Reference view.
•
Click the appropriate area of the diagrams on each page to navigate
through the pages.
Exercise 2: Need a Little Help?
Complete the following tasks by using the Documents view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step.
Display the customer facing deliverables for all phases.
•
In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, ensure that you are in the
Documents view.
•
Use the Deliverables filter.
Display all documents for the Design phase.
•
Use the Deliverables filter.
•
Use the column headings to specify the required phase.
Locate the Project Charter in the Development phase within the Customer Facing
Deliverables of the Documents view.
•
Use the Deliverables filter.
•
Navigate to the required phase.
Navigate to an activity that uses the Business Case Customer Report document in
the Microsoft Sure Step Dynamics Reference view.
•
Use the Show All Phases button.
•
Right-click the required document.
Exercise 3: Need a Little Help?
Complete the following tasks by using the tabs in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
View the list of existing projects.
•
This information is available on the Projects tab.
•
The list might be empty.
View the languages installed and additional resources available for Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step.
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•
This information is available on the Preferences tab.
•
There might only be one language installed.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Identify the location of the Project Repository.
•
This information is available on the Preferences tab.
•
The location of the Projects Repository can vary.
Exercise 1: Step by Step
Use the following step-by-step procedure to complete the procedures in Exercise
1:
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step tree structure to navigate to the following
pages:
1. The GO LIVE activity in the Deployment Phase.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, click the Reference tab.
b. In the tree structure, double-click Project Types and
Implementation Phases.
c. Double-click Deployment Phase.
d. Click 4 4 2 - GO LIVE for Standard and Enterprise Projects.
2. The Analysis Phase of an implementation project type.
a. In the tree structure, if it is not already expanded, double-click
Project Types and Implementation Phases.
b. Double-click Analysis Phase.
3. The Business Analyst customer role.
a. In the tree structure, double-click Roles.
b. Double-click Customer Roles Overview.
c. Click Business Analyst.
Use the Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step diagram on the Sure Step page to
navigate to the following pages:
1. Navigate by clicking the appropriate part of the Sure Step
Methodology diagram on the Sure Step page:
a. Under Project Types, click the Rapid Project Type.
b. Under Phases, click Analysis.
c. Under Consulting Roles, click Project Manager.
d. Under Cross Phase Processes, click Training.
2. Use the Visio diagrams to navigate to the GO LIVE activity in the
Deployment Phase of an Enterprise project.
3. On the Sure Step page, on the Sure Step Methodology diagram, in
the Project Types section, click Enterprise Implementation.
4. On the Enterprise Project page, on the diagram, click Deployment.
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
Exercise 2: Step by Step
Complete the following tasks by using the Documents view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step:
1. Display the customer facing deliverables for all phases.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, click the Documents tab.
b. In the Documents view, click the Deliverables filter, and then
click Customer Facing Deliverables.
2. Display all documents for the Design phase.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, if you are not already in the
Documents view, click the Documents tab.
b. In the Documents view, click the Deliverables filter, and then
click All Documents.
c. Click the Design column heading.
3. Locate the Project Charter in the Development phase within the
Customer Facing Deliverables of the Documents view.
a. In the Documents view, click the Deliverables filter, and then
click Customer Facing Deliverables.
b. Navigate to the Development phase.
c. Locate the Project Charter.
Complete the following tasks by using the Documents view in Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step:
1. Navigate to an activity that uses the Business Case Template Word
document in the Microsoft Sure Step Dynamics Reference view.
2. In the Documents view, click Show All Phases.
3. In the Diagnostic column, right-click Business Case Customer
Report, and then click Locate content in Sure Step.
4. Verify that you are taken to the Business Case page in the Reference
view.
Exercise 3: Step by Step
Complete the following tasks by using the tabs in Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step:
1. View the list of existing projects.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, click the Projects tab.
b. On the Projects tab, view the list of projects. The list might be
empty.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
2. View the languages installed and additional resources available for
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, click the Preferences tab.
b. On the Preferences tab, in the Content Language section, view
the languages and updates installed.
c. There might be only one language installed.
3. Identify the location of the Project Repository.
a. In Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step, click the Preferences tab.
b. On the Preferences tab, in the Project Repository section, view
the location.
c. The location of the Project Repository can vary.
Lab Discussion
Discuss any questions about exploring Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step.
Summary
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step provides systematic, prescriptive guidance for
implementing Microsoft Dynamics solutions. It provides product specific
content, best practices, tools, and templates to support large and small Microsoft
Dynamics implementation projects.
Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step is built on an easy-to-use client-based platform,
and includes the facility to create customizable projects so that Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step can be modified to meet business needs. Using Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step can help to minimize and manage the risk in implementation
projects.
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
Test Your Knowledge
Test your knowledge with the following questions.
1. For each of the following elements, match the component from the Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step model with its definition.
_____ 1. Phases
_____ 2. Decision
Accelerators
_____ 3. Processes
_____ 4. Cross Phase
Processes
_____ 5. Project
Management
Disciplines
_____ 6. Project
Management
Processes
_____ 7. Deliverables
a. The steps that are required to complete the
activities and tasks in each phase.
b. Consists of defined activities and tasks that
result in the creation of deliverables.
c. How-to information and best practices for
groups of related project management tasks.
d. Offerings that assist the customer in the
decision making process.
e. A group of related activities and tasks that
span multiple implementation phases.
f. Definable work outputs from the processes
performed that the project is chartered to
deliver in each phase.
g. Provides guidance for starting, executing, or
closing an implementation.
2. What are the ways to navigate to a template in Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step? Select all that apply.
( ) The diagram on the Sure Step page
( ) Documents view - identify the template by phase
( ) Resources tab
( ) Tools, Templates and Links box on an activity page
3. On a computer running Windows Vista, on which of the following locations
is the default installation folder for Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step?
( ) C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft
Dynamics\Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
( ) C:\Users\Public\Documents\Microsoft Dynamics\Sure Step
( ) C:\ProgramData\Microsoft Dynamics\Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
( ) C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\ Microsoft Dynamics\Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
Quick Interaction: Lessons Learned
Take a moment and write down three key points you have learned from this
chapter
1.
2.
3.
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Using Microsoft Dynamics® Sure Step 2010
Solutions
Test Your Knowledge
1. For each of the following elements, match the component from the Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step model with its definition.
b 1. Phases
d 2. Decision
Accelerators
a 3. Processes
e 4. Cross Phase
Processes
c 5. Project
Management
Disciplines
g 6. Project
Management
Processes
f 7. Deliverables
a. The steps that are required to complete the
activities and tasks in each phase.
b. Consists of defined activities and tasks that
result in the creation of deliverables.
c. How-to information and best practices for
groups of related project management tasks.
d. Offerings that assist the customer in the
decision making process.
e. A group of related activities and tasks that span
multiple implementation phases.
f. Definable work outputs from the processes
performed that the project is chartered to
deliver in each phase.
g. Provides guidance for starting, executing, or
closing an implementation.
2. What are the ways to navigate to a template in Microsoft Dynamics Sure
Step? Select all that apply.
(√) The diagram on the Sure Step page
(√) Documents view - identify the template by phase
( ) Resources tab
(√) Tools, Templates and Links box on an activity page
3. On a computer running Windows Vista, on which of the following locations
is the default installation folder for Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step?
( ) C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Microsoft
Dynamics\Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
(•) C:\Users\Public\Documents\Microsoft Dynamics\Sure Step
( ) C:\ProgramData\Microsoft Dynamics\Microsoft Dynamics Sure Step
( ) C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\ Microsoft Dynamics\Microsoft
Dynamics Sure Step
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