Discovery phase: roadmap, architecture and fixed budget before coding
Before writing a single line of code, we define the scope, design the architecture, validate a prototype and hand you a fixed budget. No surprises halfway through the project.
The discovery phase is a scoped, up-front engagement where we analyze your business, define requirements precisely and design the technical solution.
When it ends you have a roadmap, an architecture, a validated prototype and a fixed execution budget — all documented and 100% yours.
The code and configuration are 100% yours from day one.
Six operational reasons, zero adjectives
The code is yours from day one
Repos in your name, documented CI/CD and zero vendor lock-in. If you leave tomorrow, you take it all, running.
WhatsApp API with an official provider
We are a Meta Tech Provider: your WhatsApp Business API line with no middlemen, and chatbots wired to your ERP.
Sprint delivery, CMMI 2 processes
A working demo every two weeks and measurable progress. No "it’s 80% done" without something you can click.
AI applied to your operation
LLM agents, RAG over your data and process automation — the same practice we use to run iTech itself.
Real nearshore: Texas + Monterrey
Legal entity in the U.S. (iTech Corp, Texas), contracts under U.S. law, same CST time zone and USMCA.
ERP with CFDI 4.0 invoicing
We implement Odoo with integrated SAT stamping (PAC), client portal and reconciliation — a full operation, not just software.
When you need it
What it includes (discovery deliverables)
Technical roadmap
A phased execution plan with milestones, dependencies and sprint sequence. The map any team can follow to build the solution.
Solution architecture
Component diagrams, justified stack decisions and non-functional requirements (scalability, security, availability).
Data model
Entities, relationships and core business rules documented, so development starts on a thought-out database rather than an improvised one.
Wireframes and validated prototype
Wireframes of the key flows and a navigable prototype that we validate with your stakeholders before coding anything.
API contracts
Specification of endpoints and integrations (OpenAPI format) so frontend, backend and external systems connect without ambiguity.
Fixed budget
A closed execution cost, calculated on an already-validated scope. No hourly rate, no "that wasn't in the scope".
Timeline
A delivery calendar with estimated dates per phase, so you know when you'll see each functional demo and the go-live.
How we work
1ImmersionDeliverablea problem statement, AS-IS processes and agreed objectives
Workshops and interviews with your key stakeholders. We map the business problem, current processes (AS-IS) and measurable objectives.
2AnalysisDeliverablea prioritized requirements spec and defined success criteria
We document functional and non-functional requirements, technical constraints and the target process (TO-BE).
3Architecture & data modelDeliverablecomponent diagrams, the data model and OpenAPI contracts
We design the solution architecture, data model and API contracts, with justified stack decisions.
4Prototype & validationDeliverablean approved navigable prototype
We build wireframes of the key flows and a navigable prototype that we validate with your stakeholders, fixing while a change costs minutes.
5Roadmap & budgetDeliverablea phased roadmap, sprint calendar and a closed fixed budget — the whole package documented and 100% yours
We consolidate the executive plan based on the already-validated scope.
Tech stack
The tools and platforms we build it with — chosen for your problem, not for hype.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find your question? Talk to an engineer — no sales script.
Contact us →How long does the discovery phase take?
Usually between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on project complexity and the number of stakeholders involved. We agree on a closed timeframe up front so you know exactly when you'll receive the deliverables.
How much does discovery cost and is it credited to the project?
It is quoted based on scope, since it depends on the number of processes, integrations and stakeholders. If you then contract the build with us, the discovery cost is credited toward that project. Schedule a consultation and we'll evaluate your case to give you a precise estimate.
What exactly do I receive at the end?
A documented package with: a phased technical roadmap, solution architecture, data model, wireframes and a navigated prototype, API contracts, a fixed execution budget and a timeline. Every deliverable is yours from the moment you receive it.
Can I take the discovery to another vendor?
Yes. The deliverables are 100% yours and written so any competent team can execute them: the spec, the architecture and the API contracts don't depend on us. No vendor lock-in; if you decide to build with another provider, you have everything you need.
Does discovery commit me to building with you?
No. It is a standalone phase. When it ends you can start the build with us, adjust the scope, put it out to tender with several vendors or pause the project. The point is for you to decide with data, not be locked in by an initial promise.
Why pay for discovery instead of just asking for a quote?
Because a quote on an ambiguous scope is a guess: either the vendor pads the price to cover themselves, or underestimates it and the "that wasn't in scope" arrives halfway through. Discovery turns uncertainty into a validated scope, which enables a real fixed budget and reduces the risk of cost overruns. It is a scoped investment that protects a much larger one — the build itself.
More from Software factory
Get your AI assessment in 3 minutes
No sales meetings. Answer a few questions and get an actionable plan — with the option to book directly with an expert.
Free · 3 minutes · no commitment