The implementation process varies from site to site, but usually involves a mixture of on site consultancy support and user courses in an appropriate combination of all of the available services in a mix that best suits the client site. The implementation plan at any site has to be discussed and defined in the light of all the above options. A formal proposal will be issued.
A typical installation process for Athene might be as on the checklist below.
- An inventory of target servers, number of processors per box
- A definitive list of operating system(s) on target machine(s) and versions
- A copy of the PC Requirements Spec and data capture strategy is sent to the site
- Ensure that the data capture strategy has been agreed with the site
- Ensure that site has appropriate dedicated PC(s) to run CC & Athene as required
- Some user(s) should have attended the relevant training courses
- A typical agreement might be for on-site installation support for 1 or 2 days.
- The time for initial local training is variable - but 2 or 3 more days should often suffice.
Once an approach is established, objectives defined and deliverables agreed, Metron will draw up a timeline, schedule of events and appropriate worksheets, which will then be used for management and monitoring purposes.
Metron uses a straightforward approach to project management, exploiting standard PC tools.
Reporting meetings and management of the project is also controlled in a pragmatic manner, using easily understood layouts for tasks and their completion. Typically the project is broken down into a number of stages, with clear objectives and deliverables for each. This enables a continuing view of the progress made against plan and provides an early RAG indication of any risks or problems that need addressing.
Throughout the course of any study, Metron's consultants will work closely with the client's own staff to maximize the transference of skills and techniques. In conjunction with formal training, this will enable the client to establish its own capability in this area. Regular project progress reviews will be held (both locally and using teleconferencing, as appropriate) in order to review progress against plan and findings to date, and agree any changes to the forward plan, objectives, deliverables and timescales.
Timescales will depend on the client capturing the required source data, providing the appropriate hardware, and making the right people available when required. Timescales can also be affected by the degree of training required by local staff. If any conflict arises, this will be discussed at a progress meeting and a clear understanding of the impact of such delays achieved. By this means, the project will be delivered on time and with results that meet the original objectives and take forward capacity management within the user site. |
