What is an Implementation Plan?
Definition
Detailed roadmap for software deployment including phases, activities, resources, timeline, and success criteria. Implementation plans outline pre-deployment preparation, system configuration, data migration approach, integration development, testing strategy, training schedule, go-live approach, and post-launch stabilization. Plans should define roles and responsibilities, risk mitigation strategies, communication protocols, and change management activities. RFPs should require vendors to provide preliminary implementation plans demonstrating deployment methodology and resource commitment.
Why This Matters
Implementation plans reveal vendor methodology and resource commitment. Without detailed plans—phases, activities, timeline, roles, risks—organizations can't assess deployment feasibility or compare vendor approaches. RFPs should require preliminary implementation plans demonstrating vendor has deployed similar solutions and understands deployment complexity. Implementation plans should identify risks and mitigation strategies proactively.
Related Terms
Showing semantically related terms from our RFP knowledge graph. Priority connections are highlighted.
Essential Connections
Implementation
Implementation & Deployment
The process of deploying, configuring, and operationalizing software after vendor selection, including data migration, training, and go-live activities.
Project Planning
Implementation & Deployment
Defining activities, resources, timeline, and dependencies for successful implementation project execution.
Implementation Methodology
Implementation & Deployment
The vendor's structured approach to deploying software including project phases, milestones, deliverables, and success criteria.
Project Kickoff
Implementation & Deployment
Initial meeting establishing project scope, roles, timeline, communication protocols, and success criteria between vendor and customer teams.
Onboarding Process
Implementation & Deployment
The structured approach to deploying software including project planning, system configuration, data migration, user training, testing, and go-live.
Data Migration
Implementation & Deployment
The process of transferring existing data from legacy systems to new software including data extraction, transformation, validation, mapping, and import.
Vendor Onboarding
Pricing & Total Cost
The structured process of integrating a selected vendor including contract execution, system access provisioning, stakeholder introductions, kickoff meetings, and project plan finalization.
Statement of Work
RFP Fundamentals
A detailed project document defining deliverables, timelines, milestones, responsibilities, and acceptance criteria for software implementation.
Change Management
Implementation & Deployment
The process of preparing and supporting individuals and teams through organizational change including communication plans, stakeholder engagement, resistance mitigation, and adoption tracking.
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