Scoping workshop
Clarifying the problem, users, requirements and constraints, then defining priorities, an initial scope and an estimate range.
Workshops
Focused engagements to clarify scope, assess an existing system or evaluate a product direction. Each concludes with a written report setting out the analysis and recommended next steps.
- Typical length
- 1–2 weeks
- Format
- On-site or remote
- Pricing
- Fixed, agreed up front
- Deliverable
- A written report and recommendation
A structured view of the options
A workshop combines the client’s knowledge of the product or problem with our analysis of the available options. We review the relevant information, clarify the constraints and assess the work against business priorities and technical requirements.
The report sets out the analysis, options, trade-offs and recommendations, with the assumptions made clear. Depending on the scope, it may also include a proposed plan, estimates, a roadmap or a technical assessment. It is yours to use with whichever team takes the work forward.
Areas of expertise
Technical audit
Assessing an existing codebase and supporting systems for maintainability, security, performance and delivery risk, with recommendations prioritised by impact and cost.
Architecture review
Reviewing the structure, integrations and technology choices of a proposed or existing system, with options and trade-offs documented.
AI opportunity assessment
Assessing where AI could improve a product or workflow, the data and controls required, and the expected value against implementation and operating costs.
Delivery health check
Reviewing plans, dependencies and delivery practices to identify risks and improve progress.
Product strategy session
Evaluating user needs, business priorities and development options to set direction for the next stage of a product.
Is this the right shape?
Who this engagement serves best, and where a different one serves you better.
Best for
- You know the problem, but not yet the shape of the solution
- You want an independent review of a proposed scope or estimate
- You need to assess an existing system before extending or replacing it
- You want to assess whether AI could add practical value to a product or workflow
- You want to evaluate an approach through a defined piece of work before committing to delivery
Not the right fit
- Your requirements are defined and you need delivery capacity rather than an assessment: use Specialists, Teams or Projects according to the responsibility required
- You are looking for a free proposal; a workshop is paid work with a deliverable
- You need a decision within days; a workshop runs one to two weeks
How we work
Scope and preparation
We agree the objectives, scope, participants and expected output, then review the available material before the working sessions.
Working sessions
Sessions bring together the people who understand the goals, constraints and current situation. We test assumptions, examine options and identify points that need further analysis.
Analysis and recommendations
We document the analysis, options considered, key risks and a recommended course. If scope and cost are part of the brief, the report includes estimates and the assumptions behind them.
Review and handover
We walk through the report, answer questions and clarify any decisions that remain open. The written output is yours to take forward with your own team, another partner or us.
Questions, answered
We agree a fixed fee for the defined workshop before work begins. Its scope, duration and deliverables are set out in the proposal; any additional work is agreed separately.
No. A workshop is a separate, paid engagement with its own deliverable. Any work that follows is scoped and priced separately.
Then we document that recommendation and the evidence behind it, along with alternatives where relevant. The purpose of the workshop is to support a sound decision, including a decision not to proceed.
The people who own the decision and understand the product, process or system being assessed. We agree who needs to participate during scoping; most workshops involve two to four client representatives in the working sessions.
Yes. We can start with a business or product question and provide the technical assessment ourselves. We identify the information needed and explain the recommendations in terms that support the decision.
Selected work
A few engagements we’re proud of. Shipped, scaled, and still in production.
Tell us what you’re building.
The complex, the critical, the bold. We’ll tell you how we’d ship it.