Feedback on improvements and nuances learned through the turn-ups can provide a mechanism for defining the optimal sequence of tasks.
Site testing
Site testing is most often overlooked as a part of the installation. Testing of the network functionality is a given but in addition application services should be tested. Having a typical user workstation execute normal day-to-day tasks can provide a level of reassurance that the network is working as designed.
Operational handover
There should be a standardized process for turning over the network to the operations team post implementation. This allows for day-two management to commence and for any issues to be addressed by the operations team rather than the deployment team. Having the deployment resources also support the day-two management can stretch resources thin and impact the deployment significantly. In addition to defining the process for handover the operational team should be trained on the technology prior to deployment.
All of the above areas if not addressed up front can severely impact a successful deployment. It all comes back to proper planning and execution of the plan.
About the author:
Robbie Harrell (CCIE#3873) is the National Practice Lead for Advanced Infrastructure Solutions for AT&T. He has more than 10 years of experience providing strategic business and technical consulting services. Robbie lives in Atlanta and is a graduate of Clemson University. His background includes positions as a principal architect at International Network Services Lucent Frontway Callisma and SBC Communications.