What You Will Learn

• How to take a useful inventory
• Ways to find out who your users are, and why this is important
• How to estimate and deal with downtime
• Ways to test new software versions
• How to manage your legacy systems
• What "TCO" and "asset management" are

Introduction

In the field of information technology, it is often easy to be distracted by the exciting developments in hardware, software, the Internet, and so on. However, as a manager, you also have to keep your eyes on those areas that aren't quite as alluring. While activities like tracking your total cost of ownership (TCO), inventorying your environment, and managing legacy systems may be items you're tempted to put off, you mustn't. In fact, it may be one of the first activities you want to tackle in your new role as an IT manager. A first-hand knowledge of the environment, its history, and operation can help you to better define needs and future plans, and avoid repeating mistakes that were made in the past.

Inventory: Where Do I Start?

You probably have more technology in your environment than you realize. And it can be very difficult to get a handle on it all. The value of carefully determining everything you are responsible for, however, cannot be overestimated. Not only do you define your liability, but you understand the amount of resources you have at your disposal. Every audit uncovers surprises; some are small, but sometimes you can find some hardware or an...