Consulting

Statestep was originally intended as a product-only offering. For some, particularly those using it simply as a kind of decision table tool, this is fine. Over time, however, it's become clear that those considering using the Statestep method for finite state machine modelling are likely to benefit from external advice and assistance. Reasons for this include:

• common initial misconceptions and misunderstandings
• need to adapt the method to particular project needs
• lack of personnel to investigate, assess or apply the method
• easier to learn from a person than a written User Guide

Depending on individual requirements, consultancy may take several forms:

Validation of Statechart and other FSM models

If you've looked at the problem scenarios found in the digital watch model (Documents), it may have occurred to you that the act of transforming a standard FSM model into a Statestep model could be used as a means of systematic validation, exposing errors which may not be found by inspection, testing or model checking. This service can be provided off-site.

Requirements Specification

Help with a particular project would typically involve a consultant working as part of your team on a Statestep model. This can be used as way of learning on the job or simply as a way to quickly secure the advantages of Statestep for a particular project, without additional internal resources. In the latter case, the consultant might even work separately on the Statestep model, in parallel with your usual process.

Training

As doing is the most effective way of learning, it is recommended that any 'offline' training is based on a previous in-house project (whether completed or failed). In this way, participants can learn how to apply the technique on a non-trivial system or subsystem that is relevant to them.

For any enquiries, please contact the address below.

Free advice is available via email for anyone wondering whether the Statestep approach is likely to suit a particular application. A definite answer is not guaranteed (some surprising uses have been mentioned) but asking can't hurt.

Questions, comments? info2@statestep.com