Solution Matrix

I do this…	To answer these questions…	So you’ll have…
Needs assessment	What do we really want to do? What do we really need to do? Where do we want to go?	A clear vision and statement of purpose and objectives.
Product management	Despite what we think, what are our clients’ greatest concerns and problems? What can we do to solve our customer’s problems? What should we be building?	A clear understanding of the valuable final products and product-development objectives.
Project management	What people and material resources are required? How much will the project cost? How long will it take? What are the risks?	A clear doable scope of work. Clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Clear team responsibilities and communications. Deliveries that exceed expectations and are within budget and schedule.
Document planning	What purpose will documents serve? Who is the audience? What content should be included? Who are the subject matter experts? What is the best style and format?	A clear understanding of the value of the documents and document-development process.
Content development	Have the product features and functions been adequately described? Have customer's’ prior issues been addressed? Is the content user-friendly and thorough? Does the document structure flow in logical order? Do we need an index, troubleshooting section, digital output, or online Help?	Certainty that the content of your documents will actually benefit your customers. Certainty that your documents will reduce support calls and costs.
Documentation management	Will the documents be completed on time and within budget? Will the document schedules be met? Will the documents receive adequate review, editing, usability, and QA testing? Will the document drops accommodate releases for beta testing and localization?	Certainty that your documents will be completed and tested according to the program schedule.
Information architecture	Who will visit our site and what are they interested in finding? What are competing sites offering and how do they compare?	A clear understanding of the customers, content, and format for your Web site.
Technical illustrations	How can complex information be better conveyed using graphics? What tools and mediums should we use?	Document and business graphics that assist the reader and best convey complex concepts.
Technical communications	Are our end-user manuals and guides current? Do they reflect the latest features and functions? Do they address the known issues? Are the documents user friendly?	Certainty that your technical product is adequately documented for the intended user.
Business communications	Are our business plans accurate and current? Are our processes, policies, and procedures well documented? Do our business plans accurately reflect our situation and goals? Are our financial, marketing, management, and other business plans suitable for our needs?	Certainty that your business plans and communications are strong and reflective of your business development goals.

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