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Written by Tony Phelps
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Thursday, 17 November 2005 |
Last week, we considered the case for standardising the software
wherever there are more than a couple of computers. It was suggested
that keeping things 'the same' pays handsomely through avoiding lost
time and productivity just trying to get things done when there are
variations in the version and the configuration of common computer
software.
This week, we outline what a Standard Operating System (SOE) might
actually look like. You know it is a good thing, but would you
recognise it if you tripped over it?
Depending on the sophistication of computer management, the SOE is a
description of the official computer. It should list both the name of
the software to use for the basic facilities required, and the version
of that software that should be installed. The SOE may additionally
mandate the exact configuration of that software too.
For example, every computer should have an operating system, an office
suite, email software, web-browsing software, and probably anti-virus,
anti-spyware and firewall software. There might be a standard
accounting package (and associated version), maybe imaging/photo
software, backup software, fax software, etc. etc. The point is, “the
way things should be” on any given computer is written down.
Naturally, to arrive at your own SOE, you will need to think about what
you need to do with your computers, what software will enable you to do
it, what version of that software is appropriate, and how it can be
installed in a standard way. Perhaps you think the version and
configuration is too much detail – but someone needs to be responsible
for it, and if that is not you, make sure you know who it is. This may
be an area for expert help, check with IT providers round town if so.
A key point is to consider the ramifications of changing your SOE. For
example, when you buy a new computer and it comes with the latest
version of Microsoft Office, make sure you take a deliberate decision
to keep it if your other computers have older versions and might not be
capable of running the newest Office. Incompatible documents are not
hard to overcome, but they lose time and possibly business. What will
it cost to upgrade, not just in terms of acquiring the software but in
terms of the time taken to install it, and the time lost in working out
how to use it wherever things have changed?
At the end of the day, an SOE is all about familiarity. At home or at
work, you build up a list of favourite software that you know how to
use, that works well on your computer(s), and that enables you to do
the stuff you want to do without having to mess about (too much). It is
a very powerful idea with powerful effects when carried out properly,
and it is in your interests to consciously manage that list, only
changing it deliberately and after weighing the benefits against the
risks/costs. |
