MSF Process Model Overview

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

The MSF process model divides the process of creating and deploying a solution, such as Windows Server 2003, into five distinct, timed phases, as illustrated in Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.1   Microsoft Solutions Framework Phases

Microsoft Solutions Framework Phases

Each of the five phases focuses on one major cluster of activities required to successfully deploy a solution, and each phase culminates in the completion of a major milestone:

  • During the envisioning phase, the team identifies the high-level requirements and business goals of the project. Using this information, the team then develops the Vision/Scope document, which states the project goals and scope. This phase ends when the Vision/Scope document is approved.

  • During the planning phase, the team identifies the Windows Server 2003 features that it will implement and decides how to implement them. In addition, the team develops a schedule. This phase ends when the master project plan is approved.

  • During the developing phase, the appropriate teams develop and test the Windows Server 2003 code, infrastructure, and documentation. This phase ends when all of the components are complete.

  • During the stabilizing phase, the appropriate teams test, stabilize, and prepare your organization’s Windows Server 2003 implementation for release into your production environment. This phase ends when your organization’s management approves Windows Server 2003 for release.

  • During the deploying phase, the release team deploys Windows Server 2003 into your production environment.

For more information about the MSF process model, see the "MSF Process Model" white paper in the MSF Resource Library, which is available from the Microsoft Solutions Framework link on the Web Resources page at https://www.microsoft.com/windows/reskits/webresources.