Archive for November, 2011
BI Platform Admin Tip: Address the Root Problem, Not Just the Symptoms
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Issues happen. They’re a fact of life for any system. It’s how we respond to and resolve those issues, however, that differentiates a top-notch BI program from the rest. One of the biggest challenges we’ve seen for administrators is how to separate the symptoms of a performance problem from the true root cause of the [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Improve User Perceptions with Feedback Channel
Effective BI is about technology and data, but it’s equally important for platform administrators to be adept at managing user expectations. Our work with companies of all sizes shows that the process starts with being as responsive as possible to any issues that users bring forward. Make it easy for users to report concerns. We [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Manage Issues from the User’s Perspective
Most system users expect to run into issues from time to time. They don’t expect perfection—but they do expect response. How you respond to issues that arise, whether they’re major or minor, can go a long way toward maintaining positive user perception about the BI platform and about the IT team. Soliciting feedback from the [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Identify Maintenance with Regular Diagnostics
Like a tune-up for a car, identifying needed maintenance for the BI platform starts with diagnosis. To keep an eye on your system, start by establishing a benchmark that indicates “normal” performance, then monitor activity to detect offending reports, queries or processes. When issues occur, be patient as you search for the right fix. Some [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Manage to Optimal Performance
Conducting a regular tune-up on your car keeps it running smoothly, ensures it stays on the road, and helps it get you where you need to go. Tuning the BI platform is no different. Routine preventive maintenance and regular diagnostics let you detect — and address — system issues before they impact critical business functions. [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Strive for Balance in BI Change Management
Effective administration requires a framework that governs when and how to introduce new functionality — without compromising the business’ need for quick turnaround. Our work with organizations across the country has taught us that BI processes need to be streamlined enough so that business users are satisfied with the team’s ability to manage change at [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Keep Pace With Business Needs
A successful BI platform changes constantly, evolving to stay current with the needs of the business. Yet managing change can be a delicate balancing act for BI platform administrators, especially when even small changes are likely to involve multiple layers of resources. How do you allow many individuals to contribute and still maintain control of [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Formalize Service Delivery to Meet User Expectations
Exceptional BI service has three steps, and a good part of improving BI platform administration comes from implementing each of these elements: Understand the organization’s expectations and requirements in areas such as usage, volume and performance. Establish Service Level Agreements (SLAs) that spell out clear targets for service. Make sure you can realistically attain these [...]
BI Platform Admin Tip: Meet Service Level Expectations
If you’ve recently reached out to your BI users, you’ve undoubtedly heard their expectations for service delivery. (If you haven’t, this is a smart outreach to undertake periodically.) Platform administration is all about providing good service, and good service begins with shared expectations and goals. When business users know what to expect, it builds trust, [...]