Product Feature Request Process

As part of our internal product and development processes, we collate and analyse customer feedback to prioritise product features

This article is for all users of FMI Works

Overview

As a long-standing facilities management software business, we know that both the FM industry and software technology are always evolving.

To make sure our software continues to meet the needs of our customers, we continually review market and technology trends, together with customer feedback. This approach ensures we are prioritising items that maximise value for customers.

How do I request a product feature?

Talk to your account manager or log a ticket with our support team outlining the details of your desired feature.

To help us prioritise the features that make a difference to users, tell us what problem the feature solves or how the feature will make your job easier or more efficient.

What happens to my request?

Product feature requests are logged in our product management system and reviewed weekly by our product team. They are either matched with existing feature requests or new ones are created.

Are all feature requests successful?

When selecting the next feature to develop, we choose those that have been requested by the most customers or that will have the most positive impact for customers.

This means that, at times, some requests for product features do not proceed. This may be because your request is specific to your business processes, or that there are other items that are more in demand by other customers.

Will I receive feedback on my feature request?

If you would like feedback on your feature request, please ask us. We can let you know what product features are currently ahead of the feature you have requested, or if others have also requested your feature.

What is the FMI development team working on?

Product features are not the only development work we undertake. We are also performing regular maintenance of the software for security, reliability, and performance.

The product development process

Once selected and prioritised for product development, features run through the following product development process.

 

Research

In this phase, we make sure we understand the problem we are trying to solve and look at any emerging trends or technologies that may be suitable.

Design

We create user interface designs and documentation to bring the feature idea to life.

Validate

We share concepts and designs with a customer focus group and internal subject matter experts. Feedback is collated and, where appropriate, incorporated in our designs.

Develop

The finalised design is translated into development items and development commences. For more information about our development processes and methodology, see Development Process.

Measure

A final stage of testing and validation ensures feedback is provided to our product team. The feature is released to customers as part of our Software Update Process.