Kickoff

Overview

The Kickoff stage establishes project roles, scope, communication channels, and the overall implementation roadmap for the DDM Program.

This phase provides the foundational alignment needed to move from contract signing through go-live, ensuring all stakeholders understand expectations, responsibilities, and next steps.

Objectives

Establish alignment on project scope, timeline, and roles
Introduce key stakeholders and define communication channels
Provide a foundational understanding of the DDM Program
Identify required documents, data elements, and next steps for Client Setup

Key Activities

Kickoff Meeting

The R&T Implementation Manager will contact the Client Project Sponsor to schedule a one-hour virtual kickoff meeting.

During the kickoff meeting, the R&T Implementation Manager will:

Provide an overview of the DDM Program
Introduce key operational concepts (daily processing, data exchange, settlement)
Review required documentation and information for Client Setup
Discuss available data exchange methods and begin aligning on an integration approach
Address client questions and confirm next steps

Roles & Responsibilities

Client Project Sponsor
Primary point of contact responsible for coordinating internal stakeholders, supporting decision-making, and ensuring overall project alignment
R&T Implementation Manager
Leads the implementation process, provides guidance, and coordinates activities between the client and R&T

Recommended Attendees

The kickoff should include the Client Project Sponsor and team members responsible for day-to-day DDM operations after go-live.

Commonly involved teams include:

Treasury Management – oversees daily customer activity and program management
Operations – manages sweep processing and money movement

If certain stakeholders are unavailable, they can be engaged later through targeted sessions and training.

Inputs & Materials

The following materials are provided prior to or during the kickoff:

Meeting Agenda – outline of topics to be covered during the kickoff
R&T Helpful Tips for Clients – reference materials related to deposit insurance and applicable programs
Product Guides – program overview and supporting documentation

Exit Criteria

The Kickoff phase is complete—and the client is ready to proceed to Client Setup—when:

Project roles, contacts, and communication channels are confirmed
Client stakeholders understand the DDM Program structure and key operational concepts
High-level workflows (daily processing and settlement) are introduced
Required documents and data elements are clearly identified
Data exchange options are reviewed, and a preliminary approach is aligned
Open questions are resolved or tracked with defined follow-ups
Next steps, ownership, and timing for Client Setup are confirmed

Successful completion of the Kickoff phase ensures all parties are aligned and prepared to move efficiently into Client Setup.

What’s Next

Client Setup: Begin completing required forms, configuring program settings, and defining integration requirements.