This article is part of the “Assette Implementation” series, providing a high-level overview to get you started. To continue reading, please see What Data is Required to Start?
Implementing Assette effectively requires a structured approach to ensure seamless integration and optimal utilization of the platform’s capabilities. Assette is a cloud-native software platform hosted on Microsoft Azure, designed to streamline data automation and enhance reporting for investment management firms. The platform consists of core components and a modular architecture that accommodates varied business needs.
This article outlines the implementation approach for Assette, detailing the key steps, best practices, and roles involved in the process.
Implementation Process #
The implementation follows structured steps to ensure seamless integration and operational readiness:
1. Gather a Team #
- Assign Roles: Identify key team members with specific roles such as Project Manager, Business/Data Analyst, Developer/Data Engineer, Authors, and Testers.
- Collaboration: Ensure clear communication and responsibilities among team members.
2. Train Developers and Analysts #
- Objective: Educate the technical team on Assette’s data flow and architecture.
- Focus: Understanding how to prepare and integrate data for content creation.
3. Conduct Business and Data Analysis #
- Activities:
- Define the scope and modules to be implemented.
- Identify unique content requirements.
- Plan data mappings and integrations.
- Outcome: Establish a clear roadmap aligning business needs with technical implementation.
4. Develop and Test Data Components #
- Develop Data Blocks and Objects: Configure data retrieval and processing mechanisms.
- Testing: Validate data accuracy and integrity within Assette.
5. Train Authors #
- Objective: Equip marketing and content teams with the skills to create and manage templates.
- Tools: Utilize Assette’s Authoring Tools for template development.
6. Author Templates and Test Outputs #
- Process:
- Create templates for reports and presentations.
- Iteratively test and refine outputs to ensure quality and compliance.
- Collaboration: Work closely with the technical team to address any data-related issues.
7. Train Sales and Client Service Users #
- Purpose: Enable end-users to access and utilize generated content effectively.
- Training: Cover how to customize and share content with clients.
8. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and Go Live #
- UAT: Involve end-users in testing to validate the system meets their needs.
- Go Live: Resolve any outstanding issues and deploy Assette for daily operations.
Best Practices for Implementation #
- Phased Implementation: Focus on one module or asset class at a time, starting with the most data-ready areas.
- Agile Methodologies: Use iterative approaches like Scrum or Kanban to adapt to changes and deliver value incrementally.
- Consolidate Templates: Minimize redundancies by standardizing templates and shells where possible.
- User-Friendly Configurations: Prioritize configurations that enhance usability for marketers and end-users.
Key Roles in Implementation #
- Project Manager: Oversees the implementation process, coordinates activities, and resolves roadblocks.
- Business/Data Analyst: Aligns data requirements with business objectives and content needs.
- Developer/Data Engineer: Builds and configures data integrations, Data Blocks, and Data Objects.
- Authors: Create and manage content templates using the Authoring Tools.
- Tester: Validates the accuracy and reliability of generated content.
- Sales/Client Service Users: Utilize the platform to customize and deliver content to clients.
- System Administrator: Manages system settings, user permissions, and overall configuration.
Tools and Methodologies #
- Project Management Tools: Utilize software like Jira or Microsoft Project to track progress and manage tasks.
- Documentation Tools: Use internal wikis or spreadsheets for maintaining documentation and knowledge sharing.
- Implementation Methodology: Employ a hybrid approach, using Waterfall methods for initial analysis and Agile practices for development and testing phases.
Support from Assette #
Assette provides comprehensive support services to ensure a smooth implementation:
- Developer Training: Offers educational resources and training sessions for technical team members.
- User Training: Provides guidance for end-users to effectively utilize the platform.
- Client Consultants: Assigns dedicated consultants to assist with onboarding, answer questions, and offer ongoing assistance.