Assess Feasibility

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Depending on the number of options and the complexity of the analysis necessary, assessing feasibility can range from just answering a few questions to make the assessment to using a mathematically rigorous decision analysis process like AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process).

For an option to be recommended as the path forward, it needs to be both a desirable option as well as a feasible option. There may be many desirable options that are not even considered because they are obviously beyond the scope of what the organization can accomplish or beyond the scope of what a customer is willing to pay (or both).

Assess Feasibility Activities PNG
Before expensive resources are invested in a project, it is important to thoroughly analyze all options to ensure that developing the system make sense from a cost-benefit perspective. If two options appear to be roughly equal in regards to their desirability, it will be imporant to break the tie by conducting a second assessment of those options that are considered equal and best. Given a most desired option, before that option can be acted upon, it must be analyzed regarding its feasibility and validity. The option that appeals most to the developing organization might not be what the customer actually wants or can even afford. The developing organization must ensure that tools requirements, skill set requirements, and resources exist to implement the chosen option. In the unfortunate case where the most desirable option is not feasible, it becomes necessary to evaluate the feasibility and validity of the next most desirable option. This process continues until a desirable and feasible option is chosen. After the feasibility of all of the solution options are completely evaluated, a feasibility report will need to be created that captures and elaborates the findings of the assessment group.

No part of this work should be produced or used without the permission of the authors: Michael Turner and Dr. Sharon A White.