ReleasedMethod

This is the Released Method, a Methodology for Software Development

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Startup Checklist

This checklist serves as a comprehensive guide for technology startups to ensure they are structured for success. While adherence to this checklist doesn’t guarantee success, it helps establish a strong foundation for a startup’s operations, development, and growth.

Team

An effective team is the backbone of any technology startup. Ensure your team comprises skilled individuals in these critical roles:

  • Architect: Responsible for the overall technical design and structure of the software.
  • Developer(s): The core team members who write and maintain the software.
  • Tester(s): Specialists in testing software to ensure its reliability and usability.
  • Build and Release Automation Designer: Focuses on automating the build and deployment processes.
  • User Experience Developer(s): Ensures the software is user-friendly and meets customer needs.
  • Designer(s): Creates the visual design and aesthetics of the software.

Process

Documented and well-followed processes ensure consistency and efficiency in operations:

  • Daily Triage Process: Manages and prioritizes daily tasks and issues.
  • Issue Management Process: Tracks and resolves issues effectively.
  • Task Life-cycle Process: Oversees the progression of tasks from inception to completion.
  • Automated Build Process: Streamlines the process of integrating and compiling code.
  • Automated Release Process: Ensures smooth and consistent software releases.
  • Peer Review Process: Encourages collaborative review of code for quality assurance.
  • Quality Bar Process: Sets and maintains quality standards for software releases.
  • Static Code Analysis Process: Analyzes code for potential errors without executing it.
  • Code Coverage Process: Measures the extent to which the source code is tested.
  • Documentation Process: Ensures comprehensive documentation of the software and processes.
  • Sprint Planning and Execution: Organizes and manages agile development sprints.

Technology

Implement robust technology systems for efficient and effective operations:

  • Issue Management System: Tracks and manages software development issues.
  • Task and Work Item Planning System: Organizes and schedules tasks and work items.
  • Software Version Control: Manages changes to the software codebase.
  • Development Analytics System: Provides insights into the development process.
  • Artifact Management System: Manages the versions of binary artifacts.
  • Automated Build System: Compiles and builds the software automatically.
  • Automated Test System: Executes tests automatically to ensure software quality.
  • Automated Release System: Automates the process of software deployment.
  • Documentation System: Manages and stores software and process documentation.

Minimum Viable Team

A core team with diverse skills is crucial for driving startup success:

  • Hustler: A versatile business leader who oversees various business operations including sales, marketing, and brand presence.
  • Hacker: A technology visionary skilled in building scalable, high-quality systems.
  • Hipster: A user experience aficionado responsible for design, user interaction, and customer education.

Documentation

Comprehensive documentation is a hallmark of successful projects:

  • Code Commenting: Annotated code for better understanding and maintenance.
  • API Documentation: Detailed information about the application programming interfaces.
  • Design and Purpose Documentation: Outlines the design rationale and objectives of the software.
  • Risk and Issues Documentation: Identifies potential risks and issues with mitigation strategies.
  • Sprint and Project Planning Documentation: Details the planning and progress of sprints and overall project.
  • End User Documentation: Guides and manuals for end-users.
  • SDK Documentation: Documentation for Software Development Kit, aiding external developers.

By meticulously following this checklist, a technology startup can establish a robust framework for its operations, enhancing its chances for success in the competitive tech landscape.