Monday, 24 June 2013

Installation And Implementation Of IT Help Desk Software

By Sofia Heath


The IT help desk software that you select for your company should be purchased only after a thorough analysis of your requirements. Formal protocols ought to be rigorously applied to ensure that the selected package meets detailed specifications. The most important part of the system are the workers who operate it on a daily basis. In order to utilize the full functionality of the system, staff must be properly trained. Training is the secret ingredient that makes any support system successful.

The original concept has been expanded from a centralized team that is tasked with solving computer and technology problems. The mission has evolved. The information technology and computer support teams maintain a comprehensive span of services, work processes, customer interfaces and other mission critical operations. This includes both in-house support and customer assistance.

Most large information system departments are organized into teams based on functionality. For example, there is a team that supports PC workstations, and another team maintains the network printers, scanners, photocopiers, and other networked peripherals. An important function is maintaining computer security. User names and passwords are assigned and maintained. Computer access is controlled and monitored.

If someone working the desk is unable to solve an issue then they should know who to contact to help them. Most problems fall into familiar categories that support staff can resolve quickly. Common problems are slow networks, security issues, and printers malfunctioning. Internet and browser issues are becoming more frequent. Problems are tracked, recorded in a database and analyzed to create more effective responses and install prevention programs to avoid problems in the first place.

A key function is to direct a problem or issue to the appropriate person. This necessitates the organization of the department into functional areas. Problems with applications are distinct from problems with PCs, printer, scanners and other hardware. Network engineers are often dealing with slow response times. Monitoring internet use by employees falls under their purview.

Too many organizations neglect cross-training. When support staff is not available, then another worker should be able to step in and solve the problem, even if the worker's main job duties is in another area. All workers, including managers, ought to know enough about every job to fix problems when necessary.

An off the shelf system support application may or may not meet the needs of an organization. It depends on the complexity of the organization's applications and hardware. There are certain requirements that all packages should meet. Definitely, an audit trail that tracks each issue, its history and its resolution is paramount. The paths of communications and responsibilities ought to be defined and clear.

When there are problems with information systems the consequences can be serious. These types of problems need to be resolved quickly. This is why IT help desk software is vitally important. There are two stages of the process. First, the upfront, initial analysis resulting in the design plan of the support application. Second, the installation and implementation of the system. Lastly, the organization must be prepared for ongoing maintenance of the application.




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