Lesson 12: System Implementation

Successful system implementation requires good leadership and careful planning. A good understanding of every component of the system is critical in putting together an implementation strategy. Enterprise IT environments involve integration of a variety of vendor technologies. Interoperability standards within commercial software environments are voluntary, and even the simplest system upgrade must be validated at each step of the integration process. Enterprise GIS environments include a broad spectrum of technology integration. Most environments today include a variety of hardware vendor technologies including database servers, storage area networks, Windows Terminal Servers, Web servers, map servers, and desktop clients, —all connected by a broad range of local area networks, wide area networks, and Internet communications. All these technologies must function together properly to support a balanced computing environment.

Reference documentation

 * 1) Planning for building a GIS
 * 2) GIS Organizational Structure
 * 3) Pre-design efforts
 * 4) Maintain a current plan
 * 5) System architecture design
 * 6) System Architecture Deployment Strategy
 * 7) System Testing
 * 8) Systems Integration Management
 * 9) Managing Technology Change

Conclusion
Successful implementation depends on a good solid design, appropriate hardware and software product selection, successful systems integration, and careful incremental evaluation during installation. A phased approach to implementation reduces project risk and promotes success, providing the opportunity for early success and flexibility to incorporate new technology at low risk prior to final system delivery.

Guidelines are available to support a successful system design, even for large complex systems. Final purchase decisions are influenced by both operational requirements and budget limitations, introducing unique challenges for system design. Good leadership, qualified staff, and proven standard practices support successful deployments.

"Best practice: Questions on SADSwiki content can be answered through the GeoNet Implementing GIS Architecture and Security forum."

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Specific license terms for this content System Design Strategies 26th Edition - An Esri ® Technical Reference Document • 2009 (final PDF release)