A Software Development Process to Successfully Implement COTS (Commercial Off The Shelf) Enhancements
Charles Schiano
Manager Systems Development
 NYS/MTA LIRR

Introduction:

The paper and presentation will discuss the System Development Life Cycle and PM approach to successfully manage 3rd party software vendors in adapting their COTS solution to your unique business requirements.

Outline:

  • The Technical Statement of Work, what should be included
  • The Request for Proposal (RFP), what should be included
  • Defining Functional Requirements, integrating the vendors software into your requirements
  • Testing to requirements
  • Change Management
  • Acceptance
  • Staff Training
  • Support
  • Project Management

Learning Objectives:

  • Keeping the vendor on schedule
  • Off-site vendor development
  • Keeping the End User involved
  • Change Management Control
  • Testing to your environment with your data

Biography:

Mr. Charles Schiano has over 35 years of experience developing software systems for various governmental agencies. He was a Senior Program Manager at Grumman Data Systems, a defense contractor and systems integrator, from 1965 to 1995, leaving after the acquisition by Northrop. Since leaving Northrop Grumman in 1995 he has applied his IT development and implementation knowledge to the “non Federal” systems marketplace, first to Police and Fire Departments and now at a NYS governmental agency modifying systems based upon 3 rd party COTS that assist in the day to day operations of the business.

Mr. Charles Schiano has authored over 15 technical papers concerning software systems and how they were utilized to increase worker productivity. He has been a member and officer of several professional IT organizations. He has chaired technical sessions at conferences and has participated in many panel discussions.

Mr. Charles Schiano has BS in Mathematics from Adelphi University and a MS in Industrial Management from New York Polytechnic Institute. He is an active member in the Program Management Institute (PMI) and was recognized by Computerworld as one of the 2005's Premier 100 IT Leaders.