Guest blog written by ConnieMae Cooper, IT Business Analyst at Wright County
Dearest Family,
Oh, what a picnic it is in the trenches. We have been here many weeks now, and except for the last two days, it has been raining almost steadily. The result is mud, mud and yet more mud, knee deep in places. But luckily, we have long top boots from trench wear, so that the mud does not worry as much, except that is making our feet as cold as ice . . .
Give my kind regards to all and trusting you are well,
ConnieMae’vn
Just as reading letters from soldiers gives us a glimpse into the experiences they had, sharing with other OnBase users gives us insight into lessons learned from the front lines.
Here is my letter to you.
Dearest OnBase Family,
Oh, what a picnic it is the trenches. We have been in an OnBase platform upgrade for many months now and except for the last two weeks, it has been hurdles almost steadily. If I can share a turn of advice with my fellow upgrade soldiers I would suggest having a sound plan with valid test cases. Despite the risk of this falling into enemy hands, I must take a chance and share with you the rest of our battle plan so you may endure your own success.
Battle Plans:
Drills and Formations
Time spent in drills and formations is time well spent. It prepares one for the realities that come down, like so many shells, in the tough times once an upgrade is underway. Our regiment made a list of all OnBase modules, integrations, and clients used in the field. Then checked each one and reported on their condition before moving on. I would like to say it all went along swimmingly, but that would not be the whole story. With the many modules, integrations, and clients there were wounded. We had to stop and mend. But because we had a plan and a checklist all were restored, accounted for, and it is with a glad heart I can report there were no casualties.
Divisions and Duties
Another element that lead us to victory was a well-defined chain of command and division of duties. Each soldier knew their role and who to communicate with if they needed assistance. Each squad had their responsibility and their Sergeant. This rolled all the way up to the Division and our Major General. This strict structure saved us from getting out of step with one another as we marched along.
Reinforcements
I am not ashamed to admit we called upon reinforcement when the battle was demanding. Having an ally in the field with you can be a lifesaver. A time and materials contract with DataBank was of great benefit.
Debriefing
Once the upgrade is complete, the army will call a debriefing to discuss and record the events of battle. This I believe will help us with future encounters. Although no two battles are the same we have learned a lot in this and have grown by the experience. We need to remember this, so we may repeat successes and avoid pitfalls.
I have so many more stories to share. Won’t get all poked-up about it either. I will write again when time will allow such an indulgence.
Give my kind regards to all,
ConnieMae’vn
