Congratulations!  You're new system is running live, your users are happy, and productivity is on the increase.  Time to wrap up a few odds and ends, bring an official end to your EDM project, and move into maintenance and support mode on your system.

After completing the deployment, your DataCore Systems Analyst remains active on your project for a short period of time by providing "fine-tuning" support.  This activity includes answering questions about the system and helping with minor configuration changes.  The DataCore team also performs some general cleanup activities in-house, like storing the official copies of the project documentation and latest source code in our project repository.

The DataCore project manager will also solicit your feedback on the overall project execution – what went well, what could have gone better, and what lessons could be learned.  Your input is important, because it helps us continually monitor and improve our processes.

Finally, you will be asked to sign a project Final Acceptance Form.  This form indicates that the project is officially completed, and has met your requirements.  This acceptance marks the official transition from your project-based activities into maintenance and support mode.

Once the project is closed, DataCore doesn't simply leave you stranded.  DataCore's assistance is available to you on an on-going basis, as defined in your Technical Support Agreement.

DataCore knows that technology alone isn't enough to meet your increasingly complex and dynamic business and information systems needs.  We are committed to providing you with the support you need to maximize the benefits of your information technology system.  In Technical Support, our mission is to help you keep your production system up and running as smoothly as possible.

During your project life cycle, you probably spoke or exchanged email regularly with your project manager and technical lead.  While this communication method worked well for your project activities, these resources might not be immediately available if you later need support.  Therefore, DataCore has designed a support system that is better able to meet your support needs after the project has culminated.  DataCore offers a variety of methods you can use to obtain support, including our web-based Electronic Support Center, electronic mail, and the telephone.  Our support system has been designed to most efficiently and promptly respond to your requests by utilizing the best resources available.  This ensures you receive the prompt and professional assistance when you need it.

For more information, speak with your DataCore account representative, or keep watching for a future article.

Next month, we'll present our new Technical Support model, describing in greater detail how DataCore continues to provide support after the project closes.