We present a new reusable methodology called EUReqA (Evolutionary Use Case Driven Requirement Engineering Approach) that we have developed to collaboratively and efficiently create detailed Functional Specifications for Large Fixed Bid System Development Projects. EUReqA uses an multistage iterative approach for the objective of creating detailed functional specifications. The method followed is analogous to the RUP methodology that is used end-to-end to develop the system itself.

EUReqA uses a 4 stage iterative approach - Discovery, Elicitation, Creation and Transition to build rapport and agreement and build system entities that are acceptable to both functional and technical teams and are understood by both.

The key benefits of the methodology are that the project team developed about 200 number of use cases in about 3 months of elapsed time. The methodology was very well received and Team picked up more champions for our deliverables at each iteration so that the final deliverables went to executive sign-off with unanimous consensus from all interested parties. The key learning was that the boundaries of the work to be done within each iteration should be transparent, each user group should be communicated with clearly, ensure that all stake holders have an opportunity to provide input into the decisions relating to the new "one integrated process, and divide the total body of work into narrower manageable segments.

Mr. Ravi Sankar is AVP of Domain Consulting in the Retail and Consumer Goods Practice of Satyam computer Services. He has over 20 years of experience improving the performance of organizations by developing and implementing innovative process and technology solutions to meet the business and supply chain needs of Global 1000 corporations and small companies. Most recently he was VP of Supply Chain for David's Bridal (a Division of May Department Stores). Prior to that he has worked as VP of Corporate Planning and Information Systems for Sumitrans, a 3rd Party Logistics Company and subsidiary of Sumitomo Corp. He has held management roles with KPMG Consulting, Melville Corp (parent of CVS Drugs, Marshalls, Linens, KB toys etc), Leaseway Transportation (now Penske Logistics) and CSX/Sealand Logistics.

• Implementing a core international supply chain management system in locations in Europe and Asia to manage freight forwarding and trade compliance issues which reduced labor requirement on the import side globally by 50%.
• Reengineered the replenishment process and implemented an automatic. forecasting and model stock based replenishment system for CVS Corporation. Performance metrics tracked test and control stores groups and reduced store labor by over $5 million per year, reduced inventory by 5% ($23 million/ year) and improved customer service by reducing stock-outs by 15 %.
• Implemented a Just-In-Time transportation process for automotive. assembly plants for GM, Ford/Mazda and Nummi/Toyota etc. Calculated ideal inventory position, shipping frequency and truck routing and timing procedures. GM reduced inventory from multiple months to 1 wk of Safety stock, reduced plant space by 20%. Leaseway secured $2 - $3M of annual recurring business in each case.