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Network Conversions and System Upgrade Tips

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Question: 
I've worked on several system conversions, and learned a thing or two, however, I'm looking for recommendations "things to do" or "things learned" from a perspective. Does anyone have any tips to share?
Answer: 

While every system upgrade or conversion can involve unforeseen difficulties and require different considerations and risk assessments, there are some general steps that can be taken to ensure the smoothest conversion possible.First, there is no substitute for careful planning of the system conversion.

There are generally 5 phases of planning for a system upgrade or conversion:

  1. Evaluation of the benefits and potential effects of the upgrade;
  2. Training key personnel responsible for implementing the upgrade;
  3. Pre-implementation planning;
  4. Actual implementation;
  5. Post implementation follow-up and user training.

Each of these phases requires significant planning and risk assessment. The ten points below outline broad guidance and general steps that can help ensure a smoother transition to the new system.

General Steps:

  1. Perform a baseline analysis of the current state of your network or system.
  2. Detail the steps involved in adding or upgrading components of the hardware or software and order the steps within a proper sequence.
  3. Develop a system for identifying and tracking any hardware or software change on your network.
  4. Look for potential areas within the network that will be affected by the upgrade or change. For example, will users IDs, groups or rights be affected by the change? What effect will the change have on peripheral devices such as file, or print servers or other devices?
  5. Look for potential areas outside of the network that could be impacted by the upgrade. For example, identify all outside systems the network interfaces with and assess how the change will impact those outside services.
  6. Develop backups and procedures to revert to the original configuration should unforseen difficulties arise.
  7. Prior to the conversion, ensure that adequate support arrangements are in place with the hardware or software manufacturer if help is needed during the midst of the upgrade.
  8. Allocate enough time for the upgrade and enough personnel to be available to complete the tasks within a reasonable period of time.
  9. Develop test procedures once the upgrade has been completed and rigoriously test the changes.
  10. Ensure that users, help desk personnel and system adminstrators understand how the upgrade will affect their daily operations and support burdens.

Upgrades and systems conversions can be stressful for all. Probably the best advice is to remain calm, upbeat and responsive to all during the transitional process. Remember, in the long run the conversion will provide significant benefits, otherwise you would not have undertaken the task to begin with.

First published on BankersOnline.com 11/18/02

First published on 11/18/2002

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