The Microsoft® Solutions Framework (MSF) is a deliberate and disciplined approach to managing technology projects. MSF is an adaptable framework based on a defined set of principles, models, disciplines, key concepts, guidelines, and proven practices from Microsoft; it provides guidance in how to organize people and projects to plan, build, and deploy successful information technology solutions.

Since its introduction in 1994, MSF has been used nationally, then interna-tionally, to successfully deliver technology solutions faster, with fewer people and less risk, while enabling higher quality results.

MSF's View of Solution Delivery
MSF focuses on managing the people, process, and technology involved in delivering solutions in response to business opportunities or problems. MSF recognizes that no single structure or methodology is appropriate to all projects and environments given the wide variations in size, complexity, organizational and process maturity, and business requirements; but affirms that guidance through a disciplined approach is an absolute necessity for success. MSF's philosophy for managing solution delivery (projects) is not methodological. MSF is designed to be used as a framework that is adaptable, flexible, scalable, and technology agnostic. In contrast to other more traditional project manage-ment approaches, its guidance is based on principles rather than definitive steps - this makes MSF broadly applicable and readily adaptable. Whether the solution to be delivered is software development (applications, web and e-commerce, mainframe, etc.), infrastructure deployment (desktop deployments, operating system changes, enterprise service deployments, etc.), application integration, or a combination of these and other changes, MSF components can be used individually or collectively to improve success rates.

In addition to the foundation principles, MSF uses two models, the Team Model and the Process Model, as the primary vehicles for its guidance. The two models are straight forward and easy to understand. The underpinning disciplines of MSF, Risk Management, Readiness Management, and Project Management, are used extensively throughout the project life cycle to add depth and continuity. This multidimensional approach creates an easy to learn solution delivery framework that extends end-to-end across development and deployment activities - from the initial project concept through implementation - to ensure business initiatives are well-understood and effectively integrated in the operational environment.

For details on MSF, see the MSF pocket guide or the topic MSF at ITSM PORTAL.

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