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. That way you decide with data whether to start, adjust or pause the project, without having committed the full development budget.
Why iTechDev
Fixed budget
Scope and price defined before we start. No hourly billing, no ambiguous scope.
Code 100% yours
All code and configuration are your property from the first commit. No vendor lock-in.
Progress every 2 weeks
Live functional demos each sprint. You see real progress, not a months-long black box.
Engineering with process
CMMI Level 2, 5.0★ on Clutch and 200+ projects. Nearshore team in Monterrey + Texas, in your time zone (CST).
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
Immersion
Workshops and interviews with your key stakeholders. We map the business problem, current processes (AS-IS) and measurable objectives. Deliverable: a problem statement, AS-IS processes and agreed objectives.
Analysis
We document functional and non-functional requirements, technical constraints and the target process (TO-BE). Deliverable: a prioritized requirements spec and defined success criteria.
Architecture & data model
We design the solution architecture, data model and API contracts, with justified stack decisions. Deliverable: component diagrams, the data model and OpenAPI contracts.
Prototype & validation
We build wireframes of the key flows and a navigable prototype that we validate with your stakeholders, fixing while a change costs minutes. Deliverable: an approved navigable prototype.
Roadmap & budget
We consolidate the executive plan based on the already-validated scope. Deliverable: a phased roadmap, sprint calendar and a closed fixed budget — the whole package documented and 100% yours.
Tech stack
The tools and platforms we build it with — chosen for your problem, not for hype.
Frequently asked questions
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.
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