Moving from current-state maps to a validated future-state design
Key Takeaway
After you confirm the current-state map, define the future state and any transition states, use gap analysis to find how each one differs from today, and validate the draft design with stakeholders before you document requirements.
Moving from current state to future state means turning a picture of how a business works today into an agreed design for how it should work. You map the current process and find its gaps and flaws. Then you design a future state that meets the business need. Before anyone builds it, you confirm with stakeholders that the design matches what they actually need.
Start from the business need
Start from the business need, not the current process. First identify the need of strategic or tactical importance, because it guides the rest of the project.
Gather the project history before you design. Background on existing systems, design, requirements, and business processes keeps you from repeating work that is already done or reopening earlier decisions.
Identify stakeholders early, because they make decisions and help set the project's priorities and requirements.