Shout Digital Limited
Discovery Consulting - Agile Problem Definition and Improvement Identification
Our consultants engage with users and stakeholders to accurately define the problem to provide clarity
aligned to the GDS Service Standard. By assessing the problem domain against user needs, technology and legislation. The Discovery phase identifies the viability and cost-effectiveness of a potential solution before proceeding to the Alpha phase.
Features
- Achieve a shared vision of success with stakeholders
- User and stakeholder workshops, focus groups and stakeholder interviews
- User needs analysis, user personas and user journey development
- User research to gain an understanding of user needs
- Planning, recommendations and forecasting for the Alpha phase
- Preparation of user stories for the Alpha phase
- Prototyping based on user needs and testing
- Rapid delivery - four to eight weeks duration
- Aligned to GDS and Digital by Default Service Standard
- Business Analysis and Business Process Mapping via Stakeholder collaboration
Benefits
- Readiness for commencement of an Alpha phase
- The validation and cost effectiveness of a new digital service
- Agile approach and execution of all activities
- Generate a clear problem definition and potential service improvements
- A proven discovery methodology to generate, detail and test improvements
- Technology agnostic approach to remove constraints and risks from improvements
- Reduce risk through user needs analysis and stakeholder feasibility study
- Knowledge sharing with stakeholder groups and teams
- A user-centred approach to ideate and de-risk improvements
- A structured approach to migrating to cloud services
Pricing
£600 to £1,150 a unit a day
Service documents
Request an accessible format
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need versions of these documents in a more accessible format,
email the supplier at gary.boon@shoutdigital.com.
Tell them what format you need. It will help if you say what assistive technology you use.
Framework
G-Cloud 14
Service ID
4 6 7 5 7 6 9 4 1 2 3 1 9 3 5
Contact
Shout Digital Limited
Gary Boon
Telephone: 01912312377
Email: gary.boon@shoutdigital.com
Planning
- Planning service
- Yes
- How the planning service works
-
The Shout team will work directly with the buyer to analyse and scope the implementation or migration of cloud systems and services that deliver against the GDS Standard.
Our approach aligns with the GDS Manual adopting agile methodologies for programme delivery. Discovery is where our analysts will identify user needs and requirements and develop a clear roadmap for entering the alpha stage. Here, our team will develop designs and prototypes before entering beta to build a production-ready service assessed against accessibility, security and performance for operational deployment in the live environment. - Planning service works with specific services
- No
Training
- Training service provided
- No
Setup and migration
- Setup or migration service available
- Yes
- How the setup or migration service works
-
The Shout team has a wealth of experience supporting and migrating cloud-based web applications for public sector organisations including the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
We will onboard the solution to agreed cloud best practices, ensuring the scalability, performance and security of the cloud service. Our managed service expertise covers failover, disaster recovery, data retention policies, legal and regulatory compliance and governance. - Setup or migration service is for specific cloud services
- No
Quality assurance and performance testing
- Quality assurance and performance testing service
- Yes
- How the quality assurance and performance testing works
-
Shout Digital adopts agile methodologies which contains quality assurance as a central tenet. Our collaborative and transparent approach means stakeholders within the buyer organisation remain up to date with progress and visibility.
Our ISTQB certified test analysts prepare and write test plans and scripts to ensure optimal coverage of the buyers digital service or web application, which are executed through manual and automated testing.
Quality metrics are shared with all relevant stakeholders as part of the agile ceremonies, including end-of-sprint demos and retrospectives.
Security testing
- Security services
- No
Ongoing support
- Ongoing support service
- Yes
- Types of service supported
-
- Buyer hosting or software
- Hosting or software provided by your organisation
- Hosting or software provided by a third-party organisation
- How the support service works
-
Shout Digital can support your cloud systems, services and hosting.
Our Jira service desk is available 24/7 for the raising of support requests. During regular working hours (9-5 Mon to Fri), a support analyst is available by telephone, email or service desk. Response and resolution times are all backed by an SLA.
We can provide weekend and out-of-hours support with our UK based in-house team of experienced software engineers.
Service scope
- Service constraints
- Not Applicable
User support
- Email or online ticketing support
- Email or online ticketing
- Support response times
- Response times are based on the priority of the incident. For P1 incidents we respond within 1 hour with a target resolution time of 4 hours. For P2 incidents we respond within 2 working hours with a target resolution time of 8 hours. For P3 incidents we respond within 4 working hours with a target resolution time of 3 business days.
- User can manage status and priority of support tickets
- Yes
- Online ticketing support accessibility
- WCAG 2.1 AA or EN 301 549
- Phone support
- Yes
- Phone support availability
- 9 to 5 (UK time), Monday to Friday
- Web chat support
- No
- Support levels
- Shout Digital provides the following support levels: 1. Live Application Support (for assistance with live systems issues) 2. Change Request Support (for assistance with changes requested for systems in place) 3. Out of Hours Support (for assistance with issues occurring outside of business hours)
Resellers
- Supplier type
- Not a reseller
Staff security
- Staff security clearance
- Conforms to BS7858:2019
- Government security clearance
- Up to Security Clearance (SC)
Standards and certifications
- ISO/IEC 27001 certification
- Yes
- Who accredited the ISO/IEC 27001
- QMS International
- ISO/IEC 27001 accreditation date
- 10/12/2018
- What the ISO/IEC 27001 doesn’t cover
- The approved information security management systems apply to the design and development of internet-related software and other related services.
- ISO 28000:2007 certification
- No
- CSA STAR certification
- No
- PCI certification
- No
- Cyber essentials
- Yes
- Cyber essentials plus
- Yes
- Other security certifications
- No
Social Value
- Social Value
-
Social Value
- Fighting climate change
- Covid-19 recovery
- Tackling economic inequality
- Equal opportunity
- Wellbeing
Fighting climate change
Shout, in a collective effort, is committed to environmental stewardship, actively implementing strategies to mitigate climate impact across our operations. We have partnered with technology providers to enhance recycling efforts and minimise waste by promoting the exchange and reuse of technological resources.
In our offices, we encourage staff to sort and recycle waste using clearly labelled receptacles. This initiative is part of our broader environmental responsibility agenda to reduce office-generated waste.
Additionally, Shout has established a strategic partnership with Ecologi to offset carbon emissions we cannot yet reduce. Through this collaboration, we support tree planting and other environmental projects, compensating for our residual carbon footprint.
To promote sustainable commuting, we participate in the Cycle to Work scheme. This initiative not only allows employees to acquire bicycles through a salary sacrifice arrangement but also facilitates eco-friendly transportation to and from work, enhancing the physical well-being of our team and showing our commitment to their health and happiness.
Recognising the importance of community engagement in environmental preservation, we are in the final stages of securing a partnership with a local charity dedicated to environmental volunteering. This collaboration will enable our staff to contribute directly to local conservation efforts, with each employee allotted a half-day per year for volunteer work. We aim to dedicate approximately 150 staff hours to environmental volunteering in the first year alone.
Shout demonstrates a holistic and proactive approach to fighting climate change through these initiatives, ensuring that our business operations promote environmental health and sustainability.Covid-19 recovery
Shout has adapted its operations to support our staff and local communities effectively throughout the COVID-19 recovery period, ensuring resilience and ongoing support in our workforce.
We employ a hybrid working model that balances office presence and remote work, covering over 70% of our staff in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and 30% remotely across the UK. This model supports work-life balance and facilitates caregiving responsibilities for our team members.
Our commitment to sustainable commuting is reinforced through initiatives like the bike-to-work scheme and subsidies for public transport passes, which contribute to employee wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
Since 2022, we have prioritised local economic recovery by ensuring that a significant percentage of our procurement is sourced from businesses within a 30-mile radius of our Newcastle office. This approach supports local companies and reduces our logistical carbon footprint.
To address the heightened need for career development post-pandemic, we introduced an entry-level training programme in mobile development in 2023 and plan to expand this career model. All developers undergo skills assessments aligned with the Government's SFIA framework, setting precise training and certification goals to elevate their professional skills to accredited levels in essential technologies.
Furthermore, during the partial return-to-work phase, we provided over a year of personal coaching with a recognised workplace wellbeing provider to help employees navigate the challenges of adapting to new working conditions. We also developed a comprehensive stress risk assessment with mitigation strategies for line managers to implement, ensuring a supportive work environment.
Our lone worker policy has been rigorously applied to safeguard those working without immediate supervision, outlining clear responsibilities for both employer and employees to ensure their safety.
Through these measures, Shout is dedicated to promoting a robust recovery from COVID-19, supporting our staff's professional growth, and contributing positively to our local community.Tackling economic inequality
Shout is sincerely committed to tackling economic inequality by creating inclusive employment opportunities and enhancing skill development among our workforce.
We have systematically assessed all employees using the Government's SFIA framework to establish clear, individualised training and certification goals. This initiative ensures our team members enhance their professional skills to accredited levels.
In the last three years, we have increased our full-time equivalent (FTE) staff by over 50%, introducing a diverse range of roles such as an apprenticeship position and an entry-level trainee mobile developer. These opportunities open pathways into the technology sector for a diverse range of candidates, including those from underrepresented communities, encouraging inclusivity and equal opportunity.
To further improve access to IT skills training, we have collaborated with the Foundation of Light charity to deliver programmes that equip individuals with the necessary digital skills to thrive in the modern economy.
Additionally, Shout has embraced the Good Work Pledge, applying for recognition under this framework from the North of Tyne Combined Authority. This pledge demonstrates our commitment to 'good employment' practices and outlines our journey towards achieving the highest calibre of workplace standards.
We provide development opportunities through two accessible training portals to all employees, ensuring continuous professional growth. We complement our proactive approach to training through innovative platforms like Sanctus, a coaching service that supports personal and professional development and facilitates an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Shout is dedicated to reducing economic disparities and promoting equal opportunities for all through these measures, reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.Equal opportunity
Shout Digital is committed to cultivating an inclusive environment where equal opportunity is fundamental. Our recruitment processes are designed to be accessible and transparent, ensuring all job openings are publicised widely, including through our internal newsletter. We compose our job descriptions carefully to encourage diverse applications and provide constructive feedback to unsuccessful candidates where possible.
Our office space has been recently renovated to enhance accessibility and create a welcoming atmosphere for all staff. We offer flexible working arrangements, including fully remote positions, evaluated individually to meet our employees' needs while ensuring operational efficiency.
Shout maintains a robust Equality and Diversity policy, updated annually or as needed to reflect legislative changes. This policy underpins all our operational practices and facilitates a supportive workplace culture.
Performance reviews at Shout are transparent and streamlined, ensuring all employees receive fair assessments and clear guidelines for growth and development. Based on these reviews, employees are encouraged and supported to pursue relevant training opportunities to advance their professional skills.
Our comprehensive suite of policies, including those on sickness, flexible working, remote working, conduct and capability, and learning and development, supports effective communication and employee welfare.
Additionally, Shout has embraced the Good Work Pledge, applying for recognition under this scheme by the North of Tyne Combined Authority. This commitment illustrates our dedication to 'good employment' standards and our journey towards excellence in employment practices.
Shout actively promotes equal opportunities through these initiatives, striving to eliminate barriers and create a workplace where everyone can succeed.Wellbeing
Shout is committed to the wellbeing of our employees, incorporating comprehensive health and safety measures and wellness initiatives into our daily operations. New starters and those returning from extended leave receive a thorough Health and Safety (H&S) induction and always adhere to HSE guidelines.
During the partial return-to-work phase following COVID-19, we provided personal coaching for all employees through a recognised workplace wellbeing provider, focusing on mental and physical health support.
We have developed a detailed stress risk assessment with targeted mitigation strategies for line managers, ensuring the mental health of our staff is protected. Our lone worker policy addresses specific risks, establishing clear responsibilities for safe working conditions.
Shout maintains thorough records of risk assessments, which are regularly reviewed and refined for individuals with particular needs, such as health conditions or pregnancy. Additional health and safety training, including manual handling, is provided as required.
To promote a healthy work-life balance, we exceed statutory requirements for rest breaks and annual leave, encouraging staff to take regular breaks. Overtime is managed carefully to prevent excessive working hours.
Our wellbeing initiatives include a cycle-to-work scheme, complimentary fruit, and support for public transport costs, reducing commuting stress and environmental impact. Flexible working hours and hybrid work options further enhance our employees' ability to effectively manage their professional and personal lives.
We conduct return-to-work meetings after any absence, cultivating a supportive culture where employees can discuss mental health concerns openly. Additionally, we are establishing a partnership with a local charity for environmental volunteering, aiming for 150 staff hours of community service in the first year. Shout also participates in charity events like bake sales and fundraising activities for organisations such as Macmillan Cancer Support.
Shout ensures a supportive, healthy workplace through these practices, emphasising the importance of physical and mental wellbeing for all employees.
Pricing
- Price
- £600 to £1,150 a unit a day
- Discount for educational organisations
- No
Service documents
Request an accessible format
If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need versions of these documents in a more accessible format,
email the supplier at gary.boon@shoutdigital.com.
Tell them what format you need. It will help if you say what assistive technology you use.