DADDsm is Program4's acronym for "Definition", "Analysis", "Design" and "Documentation". It is the approach that Program4 uses to assess the client's needs and propose a specific solution. Far more than just a "study", the result is a documented design and a proposed solution with estimated costs and we do it for a Fixed Price.

First, we listen to the client's project team to accurately DEFINE the need. For example, we define what areas of the plant are to be addressed. We define the required functionality of the factory floor controllers such as PLCs, regulatory and supervisory control, desired features of the HMI, process hardware, the necessary networking so that information is accessible where and when it is needed. We define the "givens" for integration with existing plant systems. We access the need for process information and reporting requirements.

Second, we ANALYZE the existing control systems, hardware and software, to determine their maintainability, expandability, accessibility, and communication capability. In many cases, we can stretch the capital investments made in these older systems by providing seamless interfaces to the newer systems we install. In other cases, it makes more sense to simply replace the outdated hardware and software systems.

Third, we DESIGN the control system improvements and equipment upgrades by examining the options and then laying out an overall approach that incorporates both the existing and the new. The focus of the design is to meet the needs as defined in the first step of this process. For example, if the primary goal is to improve access to real-time and archived process data, then paramount to the design will be the site-wide networking combined with fast and reliable access to individual SCADA systems.

Forth, we DOCUMENT the appropriate design incorporating the requirements your company has requested. The "deliverables" may include: Functional Specifications, Software Requirements, CAD Drawings, I/O Lists, Interface Specifications, equipment specifications, a database design or sample reports. The objective is to assure that all involved understand the scope of the proposed improvements, the needs that these improvements are targeted to meet, and how these improvements will be accomplished. This empowers you and your company to go forward.