Proper system setup and data migration are absolutely essential for a successful implementation
Based on years of experience, Horizon
has developed an efficient and effective four-step methodology to ensure your
implementation is successful.
 Horizon’s four-step
methodology consists of a Discovery phase for pre-planning, System Engineering
and Installation, Training and Implementation, and Support Monitoring. The
implementation process begins with a visit from one of Horizon’s Senior
Business Analysts (SBA). During this visit, the SBA meets with you and your
staff to explain Horizon’s capabilities and implementation methodologies. Your
business processes are reviewed and expectations are defined. Following a
technical review, an implementation plan addressing your needs is created and
submitted to you for approval. Once the implementation plan is accepted, the
project begins.
SYSTEM SETUP
This step is crucial to an effective
implementation process.
A certified Horizon Project
Coordinator explains the setup process to the client.
At your site, a Horizon Systems Engineer thoroughly
reviews a Setup Guide detailing the options chosen by the client for each
module. During this step, business decisions are made in order to ensure the
system conforms to the client’s business model. Depending on your specific
implementation, these business decisions include such things as manager vs.
cashier rights and passwords, bar code readers or pin pads, shopping list or
menu plan ordering, standard or detailed production record, focus or random
Free and Reduced verification, etc. The system is then configured according to
the client’s business model by the Systems Engineer.
Initial front-of-the-house
setup is fast and efficient.
Clients can choose to have Horizon set up the system
in its entirety or receive assistance in setting it up. During this phase, the technical
aspects are set up and the system is configured at the Central Office. This
includes installing Microsoft SQL on the central server, installing Microsoft
SQL Express for the sites, and establishing communication protocols for the
Wide Area Network (WAN).
 In addition, the Student Information System (SIS)
and the Free and Reduced initial download are set up, and the automatic scheduler
is configured to perform routine tasks at specified intervals. Next, the student
database is easily set up. It takes less than an hour to import and configure
to your specifications. At this time,
clients can apply global and individual rules, set charge limits, define
spending limits and eligibilities, and more.
Depending on the products
chosen by the client, various additional setup processes are performed:
- For POS installation, clients will set up
menu plans and schedule cycles, import student information including account
balances, and configure POS setting for your business model.
- Setting up the back office software involves
setting up inventory items, linking items to USDA CN database, setting up
recipes, setting up menu plans and scheduling cycles, and configuring the
system to your business model.
- Set up for MealpayPlus is conducted via
telephone/Internet and takes less than 3 hours.
The Central Office and one site are configured remotely. The client then
installs the remainder of the sites. During this process, the POS software and
MealpayPlus are configured by establishing communications, configuring
settings, and establishing bank routing.
- Check Recovery setup is a breeze. The
district simply furnishes banking information and the Check Recovery
coordinator handles all setup and routing.
- Vending machines are configured on-site. Planograms
are configured via the POS software and slot sizes for different package sizes
are set up.
DATA MIGRATION
Data Migration and Data
Conversion are essential to a successful implementation and are conducted on the
same visit.
 Setup guides are provided to the district outlining
the data that will be needed. Clients can choose to have Horizon provide a
turn-key or train-the-trainer setup. In most cases, data can be transferred
electronically but some data will need to be entered by hand.
TRAINING
 Horizon conducts training
for your staff and
then the system can be rolled out.
Hands-on training is
conducted in your environment with real-life situations using the system’s
training mode. Upon completion of training, system rollout can begin.
POST-IMPLEMENTATION
Once installation is
complete, Horizon offers call center support and monitors your progress.
 Horizon’s call center support is provided 24/7 and is
accessed via a toll-free number. Threshold reporting is utilized to facilitate
account monitoring. In addition, your SBA will make periodic visits to your
site in order to ensure your satisfaction.
|
