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The Ternary Difference

Services – The Old Way

The traditional software development model, called “waterfall,” is based on Project Specifications. Organizations spend considerable time and resource to generate extensive documentation, upon which applications are built. The client must typically sign off on the Requirements Document as a control procedure. Programmers then interface with the Requirements Document to generate their code. Upon completion, the project is given back to the client, and the client must validate that the completed code is compliant with the Requirements Document. The user may then be brought in to be trained on the application. Usability issues are either addressed by refining the User Documentation, or if the problem is excessive, by issuing a change order to the contractor. Requirements for the change order must be generated, and then signed off by the client. The programmers are then given a revised set of program specifications to rewrite that portion of the application.

This approach works well when the comprehensive set of requirements is completely understood and perfectly documented. Unfortunately, the model falls apart fairly quickly when requirements are NOT perfectly understood and communicated. In fact, the empirical evidence reveals a rather bleak track record.

Only 16% of software projects are completed on time and within budget

31% of software projects undertaken fail to even reach completion

The average cost overrun is 189%

The average schedule overrun is 222%

The average “completed project” includes only 61% of desired features


Clearly, the Traditional Model is limited. It presupposes that the client has a clear and precise picture of the end point. In the innovative space, this is almost never the case. It also assumes that the requirements are static. All to often in today’s global economy, competitive forces and market shifts can cause profound changes in the demand structure. What looked like a good idea is January may require a major overhaul by June. Finally, creative thought is completely stifled in this model after the initial requirements document has been signed. A great idea one day too late will never see the light of day.

Building and managing an effective software development organization takes experienced and dedicated leadership. Choosing the right software development approach is a crucial strategic decision for growing businesses that need innovative software.

Service – The New Way

Partner with a firm that uses an innovative Agile Methodology, and gain the benefits of an adaptable and expertly run software development team, without the risks and costs of building it in-house.

Ternary uses a unique and innovative approach to software development – an Agile Methodology – to:

Learn the Client’s Business

Understanding the big picture allows Ternary to go beyond implementation and actually help clients define application features and specifications aligned with business priorities.

Provide an Outsourced Department

Ternary partners with clients to provide a development team that acts as an extension of the client company, supporting current projects as well as the ongoing development needs of the client.

Show Work-in-Progress Software

Rather than waiting until a product is nearly complete to see it, Ternary’s clients are empowered to review work-in-progress software daily, and provide feedback to the development team.

Continually Integrate Feedback

Instead of generating lengthy and often inaccurate specifications in advance of development, Ternary’s approach enables a product to evolve throughout implementation. Clients can adjust the direction of the development effort as needs become clearer, or as hands-on experience with the work-in-progress product triggers creative thought.

Retain Top Professionals

Ternary’s employees are selected from thousands of the best job applicants nationwide through an exhaustive and innovative screening process. Using only the best talent results in higher quality, faster implementations, and lower costs for clients.

Service – Results in Successful Implementations

The Product You Need

With an innovative Agile Methodology, Ternary delivers what you need when you need it. Upon delivery, Ternary’s clients have solid and tested applications that reflect their most up-to-date set of business requirements.

Within Your Budget

Independent industry studies estimate a wide variance in both the quality of programming teams and their associated productivity. Top tier teams can improve efficiency by as much a 500% over the life of a project! Ternary is able to build extremely cost-effective solutions for clients by employing only the best talent in an environment designed to maximize programmer productivity.

On Your Schedule

Ternary understands timing. The window of opportunity is critical for growing companies – the road to success is littered with companies that had great ideas but lacked timely execution. Ternary has established a solid track record of rapidly producing and delivering results, which has enabled Ternary’s clients to succeed in highly competitive markets.



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Phone (610) 594-8914 ex220, Fax (208) 485-1254