Finalizing the Deployment Plan

The results of the pilot installation provide the basis for developing a final plan for deploying Internet Explorer to your user groups. To finalize your deployment plan, you need to:

• Incorporate feedback from all participants in the pilot program.

• Determine the time and resource requirements for the final rollout.

• Update company policies and standards regarding Internet Explorer use.

Incorporating Feedback

Survey the pilot users to measure their satisfaction and proficiency with the new installation and to evaluate the level of training and support provided. Test users' proficiency by having them perform a few common tasks or use several of the new Internet Explorer 5 features.

Obtain feedback from all participants, including pilot users, trainers, and support technicians, and document the lessons learned during the pilot program. Based on this initial feedback, record changes that will increase the satisfaction level and the effectiveness of the installation process.

Continue to monitor the pilot installation for a week or more to ensure that everything runs smoothly. Track open items and issues using the database you created for the pilot installation. Then, incorporate the feedback into your deployment, training, and support plans. If the pilot program did not run smoothly or if feedback was negative, conduct additional pilot installations until the process works well.

Determining Time and Resource Requirements for Final Deployment

Using the actual time and resource requirements from the pilot program, teams can make projections about the time and resources required for the final deployment. If additional resources are needed, identify and acquire them at this time.

Updating the Policies and Practices Guidelines

Before beginning the final deployment, update all company policies regarding the use of browser software and Internet and intranet access by employees. In addition, update the corporate standards lists for software usage, and ensure that all computers are compliant.

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