Process implementation...

For long running projects without defined processes, do not attempt a big bang approach. People are resistent to change. A big bang approach will lead only to greater resistance. Try to work out the as-is process and suggest improvements. Apply metrics to see the current level of performance. This will help in understanding areas which can be oiled for maximum efficiency. The measurements also allow for assessing the weakest links, forging of which will lead to enhanced performance.

After you have set up basic metrics in place, reach out to the client team to understand their expectations. Report the metrics to the client team. Facts will provide a handle to justify (realize if process tweak is necessary) the efforts of development team.

Talk with the development team to understand the challenges of implementing a defined process. Come out with a basic ETVX model for the as-is process. Suggest improvements to it. After the process flow has been established in consultation with the project manager, disseminate the information to the entire team via classroom sessions. Randomly check each developer to see if the defined process is being followed. Capture metrics at each stage of the defined process.

Compare the new metrics with the older ones to see the improvement in proces performance.