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, 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) initial download is 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 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 client 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 client 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.