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Fwd: 5ESS Upgrade/Replacement Project

daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Lu Keohane)
Thu Dec 20 14:47:24 2001

Message-Id: <5.0.2.1.2.20011220144429.00a67110@hesiod>
Date: Thu, 20 Dec 2001 14:45:46 -0500
To: delivery@mit.edu
From: Lu Keohane <lu@MIT.EDU>
Cc: njj@mit.edu, jcyr@mit.edu
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I apologize to the folks who are getting this a second time.  It wasn't=20
received by all.

Happy Holiday's

Lu


>Date: Fri, 14 Dec 2001 17:14:26 -0500
>To: delivery@mit.edu
>From: Lu Keohane <lu@mit.edu>
>Subject: 5ESS Upgrade/Replacement Project
>Cc: njj@mit.edu, telecom-ops@mit.edu
>
>Project Name: 5ESS replacement
>Project Leader: Lu Keohane
>Report Date December 4, 2001
>Submitted by: Lu Keohane
>URL: http://web.mit.edu/is/delivery/5ess
>
>This Month's Accomplishments:
>
>%       Completed the wiring from the AM (Administrative Module) to the SM
>%       Completed the necessary power changes to SM21 (in E19) by bringing=
=20
>the equipment off-line on a weekend to be rewired    and powered by the=20
>new 5ESS-2000 telephone switch.  (There were no reported outages during=20
>transition).
>%       New switch is powered up and now being tested.  (E.g. bad timing=20
>cables, 56 core boards defective, ISLU missing
>         dpidb=92s, etc.)
>%       Finished Frame verification in E19, new blocks mounted with S=20
>clips on the MDF
>%       Re-verified specific counts for accuracy issues found by 5EOps team
>%       Wired jumpers to all working NW12 telephone lines to new blocks=20
>(new switch) with Y cable to old block (existing switch)
>%       Wired jumpers to all working 24 telephone lines to new block with=
=20
>Y cable to old block
>%       Started wiring jumpers in the E19 telephone lines to new blocks=20
>with Y cable
>%       Completed all resolutions to widgets found on exist 5ESS since=
 1987.
>%       Identified and documented all =93critical lines=94 for weekend of=
 cut over
>%       Article written provided in current addition of I/S Newsletter
>%       Continue to update cable and pairs found within frame verification=
=20
>and day-to-day repair changes.  (Approximately 100   cable/pair changes=20
>per day).
>%       Continue to trace anomalies and update spreadsheet
>%       Continue to oversee all telephone moves, adds, changes and trouble=
=20
>tickets.  Mapping and updating the 5E database with  cable and pair=20
>changes in chronological order (for a more accurate database at cut over).
>%       Continue ICE9 database upgrade/reconciliation/updates
>%       Continue programming of new 5ESS with line translations and=20
>configurations
>%       Amis terminals have been delivered and are being set up
>%       Resolution to CM3 and TRCU3 (within the SM=92s) are completed (took=
=20
>3 weeks).  Resulted in a release upgrade, spare       packs and new=20
>equipment that were not shipped with order.
>%       Trunk conversions are 80% complete.  (Work is done by MIT after=20
>hours to reduce service effecting issues)
>%       ISDN conversion from the E19 switchroom is 95% completed (all work=
=20
>is being done by MIT after-hours)
>%       Testing of the NKC (Network Knowledge Center) and the remote=20
>monitoring of both switches is 100 % complete.
>%       Rewriting of the ICE 9 code is 60% complete.  Procedures are being=
=20
>written to test code on SO (service orders) & TT     (trouble=20
>tickets).  The other modules that have been modified and will be tested is=
=20
>billing, cable infrastructure, vmail, jacks,        circuits, reports,=20
>etc.  Modifications to code are being performed on the alternate server=20
>where it will be tested.  This       alternate server allows the TNS 5ESS=
=20
>Support Team to continue operating normally for the communities=20
>communications     needs.
>%       Disaster Recovery spares have arrived and another set will be=20
>delivered soon.
>%       Completed E19=92s U-A to U-B conversion (approximately 700 lines=20
>modified during off-hours).
>%       Clean-up work of the modem pool started with assistance from R.=20
>Hoffmann
>%       Verification of 57,675 pairs completed.  Spot checks performed for=
=20
>accuracy.
>%       Plans for U-A to U-B conversion started for NW12 and 24
>%       Met with Lucent executives to resolve =93Lucent=94 issues with=20
>commitment, personnel and technical barriers
>
>
>
>
>Next Month=92s plans:
>5ESS Web site is on line.  Our team thanks Lee Ridgeway.
>I/S newsletters and other communications are being deployed.  Our team=20
>thanks Robyn Fizz.
>Completed the wiring of all SM=92s in E19 (expected completion 12/16)
>Continue preparation for adjunct systems (e.g. voicemail ACD, IVR, modem=20
>pool, etc)
>Upgrade the 3A Translator chip and test on the new 5ESS switch
>Complete the moving of analog trunks over to new switch and report=20
>procedure for the night of cut over (expected completion 12/16)
>Begin test plans (begin testing the existing 5ESS for features,=20
>capabilities modifying documentation for accuracy.  Test plan to be used=20
>on the new 5ESS switch with additional features and higher release of=20
>software.
>Set up of telephones in 3 office sites for pre and post cut over
>Test the SAS announcements on new switch
>Record all of the 5ESS announcements on the new switch
>Test the ACD recent change/verify and MIS links
>Record all the ACD announcements on the new switch
>Record all the announcements for Facilities on the new switch
>Test the VMail, 3A translator and 5ESS integration from the new switch=20
>(off-hours) (integration, message waiting indicator functioning and=20
>outcall abilities)
>Continue tracing all special software configurations, links and other=20
>misc. equipment running off of the 5ESS
>Continue to review modem pool room in preparation of conversion.  Create=20
>procedure
>Move all trunks over to new DSX panel (off hours required) (12/16)
>Load all Switch Modules with current database
>Perform dumps of new 5ESS OE=92s for new ICE 9 database
>Complete cross connects of 22,000 lines
>Install TTY and AMIS terminals for cut over
>Get volunteers from TNS to assist on cut over weekend
>Set up testing center (test class of services, features, mlhg, msg waiting=
=20
>Indicator, etc.) Communicate with community
>Seek out volunteers to work the MLK weekend
>Create a cut over plan and strategy for team for MLK weekend
>Work with CSR=92s, Operators to address any anomalies.
>Be ready for cut over by January MLK weekend (e.g. starting Friday night).
>
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>
>Issues:
>As we begin to make progress on the wiring of the new equipment it is=20
>increasingly difficult but not impossible to perform the day-to-day=20
>service orders.  Currently there are 3 Lucent techs wiring while 2-3 of=20
>our techs are installing or repairing on the MDF=92s.  Though frustrating=
 at=20
>times, both teams have worked very well with each other.
>
>Access into buildings off hours was impeded by a lack of keys to gain=20
>access. Thinking ahead to cut over weekend, this was going to be a huge=20
>effect on service and maintenance.  This was resolved with the help of=20
>Vicki Sirianni and Mary Harrington.  Thank you.  They provided us with two=
=20
>more sets of grand masters.
>
>After powering up all cabinets on the new 5ESS-2000, we encountered some=20
>technical issues with the Switch Modules (SM=92s) configuration.  All SM=92=
s=20
>experienced the same =93errors=94 which were resolved by a software release=
=20
>upgrade or in some cases, hardware changes.
>
>
>
>
>
>When Lucent personnel issues arose and tensions increased, staffing=20
>changes were strongly suggested to Lucent.  These changes have had a=20
>positive effect on satisfaction and productivity (60% more work began to=20
>be completed).
>
>Lucent spent three weeks on a Command Module (CM3) problem.  They did not=
=20
>use resources for assistance provided by the 5Eops team and they didn=92t=
=20
>follow through with additional investigative calls back to the product=20
>development team.  This problem surfaced in mid November and when asked=20
>weekly for a pulse check, our team was told each time that this was not an=
=20
>issue that would effect the date of cut over.  Unfortunately, Lucent=20
>realized the =93effect=94 the issue was having on the flow of other related=
=20
>pieces of the switch installation.  When raised three weeks later as an=20
>issue, contacts at VP level were notified and advised of disappointment in=
=20
>the project management and problem resolution methods.  Lucent is now=20
>committed to reaching the MLK cut over date with additional staff and=20
>resources.  Our team thanks Nate Johnson for his strong leadership skills,=
=20
>support and strength during these stressful meetings.
>
>At the regularly scheduled meeting following the big strategy meeting with=
=20
>Lucent executives, we requested clarification on the configuration of a=20
>shelf in one of the new SM=92s.  The Lucent engineer dialed into the switch=
=20
>to discuss the logical layout and described to us that the database did=20
>not have anything in it.  As hearts stopped in the room, one mumbled to=20
>another=85 I think he=92s logged into the wrong switch=85 Quickly the team=
 began=20
>discussing how to recover the lost data when low and behold the engineer=20
>from Lucent admitted he goofed.  He logged into the correct site (MIT)=20
>but, the wrong switch=85 he was looking at the existing classic=20
>5ESS.  Another example of how Lucent makes this project and the people on=
=20
>the team hyper vigilent at all times.
>
>The 5ESS Service Team made up of 6 staff members and one voucher employee=
=20
>are displaying signs of stress and burnout.  All individuals are working=20
>110 % (full time) on the project as well as performing their day-to-day=20
>responsibilities at 110%.  The staff is being spread thin.  The 5ESS=20
>Service team tends to handle issues that have no home.  Therefore, the=20
>team will spend a significant amount of time on outside problem=20
>resolutions and become more frustrated and stressed for the=20
>distraction.   (I continue to address this issue gently, cleverly and=20
>creatively).  Thank you to those who recognize the magnitude and=20
>complexity of this project and have offered their assistance and=20
>encouragement.
>%       Communication issues were prominent this month as we near crunch=20
>time.  Misunderstandings regarding the 5ESS implementation plan and=20
>services available to customers before and after the switch cut over=20
>cultivated.  Specifically, rumors spread on the availability in 24 with=20
>SM6 after cut over.   The actual plan is that we re-engineered the 24 site=
=20
>to handle all lines currently in service and spares of both ISDN and=20
>analog off of SM5.   After the cut, the old classic cabinets will be=20
>removed and SM 6 will go on line as scheduled.  This will have no effect=20
>on the community, the 5E support team or VDIST.    This temporary solution=
=20
>will be a transparent to all outside of 5E Ops.
>%       Once the team identified the =93quiet period=94 we received=20
>interesting questions and/or concerns (E.g. the operators received a phone=
=20
>calls from customers that were =93disappointed that they couldn=92t have a=
=20
>telephone for a month.=94)    Misunderstandings and confusion stirred=20
>regarding services availability (e.g. length of time in quiet period,=20
>expressing quiet period to customers when request for services come in,=20
>etc.).  This was addressed and hopefully resolved by Nate=92s meeting on=20
>12/14/01 with all of TNS team members related to telephones services,=20
>support and infrastructure.
>
>                 %       VDIST is going to provide as much assistance as=20
> possible by using                       their influence to guide cutomer=
=20
> projects around the cut over.
>%       Documentation with strategy for going forward on MLK weekend needs=
=20
>to be created to ensure things like food, cots, rotation schedules, etc.=20
>are addressed and available to volunteers.
>
>Team Dynamics:
>The 5ESS core team and additional resources being utilized come from a=20
>strong foundation (or that the super glue is working).  Increased=20
>workloads, longer hours and outside frustrations are increasing stress=20
>levels for all in E19 (6th & 7th floors).   The TNS team is made up of=20
>very talented individuals.  Their efforts, skills, and determination are=20
>making this project appear to the outside world as simple though in=20
>reality it=92s very complex.
>
>The team is doing an outstanding job with balancing the stress from the=20
>day-to-day issues and the project issues (it is a good sign when the team=
=20
>is still laughing at my jokes).
>Key Learnings:
>         Look before you leap, use tact and courtesy, learn to listen,=20
> learn to laugh,
>         Communicate often and to many
>         Always stay alert
>Appreciate every effort contributed
>
>
>
>
>Thanks,
>Lu
>
>=BA=BF=BA
>  ~

Thanks,
Lu

=BA=BF=BA
  ~=20
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<html>
I apologize to the folks who are getting this a second time.&nbsp; It
wasn't received by all.<br>
<br>
Happy Holiday's<br>
<br>
Lu<br>
<br>
<br>
<blockquote type=3Dcite class=3Dcite cite>Date: Fri, 14 Dec 2001 17:14:26
-0500<br>
To: delivery@mit.edu<br>
From: Lu Keohane &lt;lu@mit.edu&gt;<br>
Subject: 5ESS Upgrade/Replacement Project<br>
Cc: njj@mit.edu, telecom-ops@mit.edu<br>
<br>
Project Name: 5ESS replacement<br>
Project Leader: Lu Keohane<br>
Report Date December 4, 2001<br>
Submitted by: Lu Keohane<br>
URL:
<a href=3D"http://web.mit.edu/is/delivery/5ess"=
 eudora=3D"autourl">http://web.mit.edu/is/delivery/5ess</a><br>
<br>
<b><u>This Month's Accomplishments:<br>
<br>
</u></b><font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&n=
bsp;&nbsp;</x-tab></font>Completed
the wiring from the AM (Administrative Module) to the SM<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Completed
the necessary power changes to SM21 (in E19) by bringing the equipment
off-line on a weekend to be rewired <x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>and
powered by the new 5ESS-2000 telephone switch.&nbsp; (There were no
reported outages during transition).<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>New
switch is powered up and now being tested.&nbsp; (E.g. bad timing cables,
56 core boards defective, ISLU missing <br>
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>dpidb=92s,
etc.)<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Finished
Frame verification in E19, new blocks mounted with S clips on the
MDF<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Re-verified
specific counts for accuracy issues found by 5EOps team<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Wired
jumpers to all working NW12 telephone lines to new blocks (new switch)
with Y cable to old block (existing switch)<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Wired
jumpers to all working 24 telephone lines to new block with Y cable to
old block<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Started
wiring jumpers in the E19 telephone lines to new blocks with Y=20
cable<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Completed
all resolutions to widgets found on exist 5ESS since 1987.<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Identified
and documented all =93critical lines=94 for weekend of cut over<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Article
written provided in current addition of I/S Newsletter<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Continue
to update cable and pairs found within frame verification and day-to-day
repair changes.&nbsp; (Approximately 100
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>cable/pair changes per day).<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Continue
to trace anomalies and update spreadsheet<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Continue
to oversee all telephone moves, adds, changes and trouble tickets.&nbsp;
Mapping and updating the 5E database with <x-tab>&nbsp;</x-tab>cable and
pair changes in chronological order (for a more accurate database at cut
over).<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Continue
ICE9 database upgrade/reconciliation/updates <br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Continue
programming of new 5ESS with line translations and configurations<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Amis
terminals have been delivered and are being set up<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Resolution
to CM3 and TRCU3 (within the SM=92s) are completed (took 3 weeks).&nbsp;
Resulted in a release upgrade, spare
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>packs and new
equipment that were not shipped with order.&nbsp; <br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Trunk
conversions are 80% complete.&nbsp; (Work is done by MIT after hours to
reduce service effecting issues)<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>ISDN
conversion from the E19 switchroom is 95% completed (all work is being
done by MIT after-hours)<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Testing
of the NKC (Network Knowledge Center) and the remote monitoring of both
switches is 100 % complete.<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Rewriting
of the ICE 9 code is 60% complete.&nbsp; Procedures are being written to
test code on SO (service orders) &amp; TT
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>(trouble tickets).&nbsp; The other
modules that have been modified and will be tested is billing, cable
infrastructure, vmail, jacks,
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>circuits,
reports, etc.&nbsp; Modifications to code are being performed on the
alternate server where it will be tested.&nbsp; This
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>alternate server
allows the TNS 5ESS Support Team to continue operating normally for the
communities communications
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>needs.<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Disaster
Recovery spares have arrived and another set will be delivered=20
soon.<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Completed
E19=92s U-A to U-B conversion (approximately 700 lines modified during
off-hours).<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Clean-up
work of the modem pool started with assistance from R. Hoffmann<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Verification
of 57,675 pairs completed.&nbsp; Spot checks performed for=20
accuracy.<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Plans
for U-A to U-B conversion started for NW12 and 24<br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbs=
p;</x-tab></font>Met
with Lucent executives to resolve =93Lucent=94 issues with commitment,
personnel and technical barriers <br>
<br>
<br>
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab><br>
<br>
<b><u>Next Month=92s plans:</u></b>
<dl>
<dd>5ESS Web site is on line.&nbsp; Our team thanks Lee Ridgeway.=20
<dd>I/S newsletters and other communications are being deployed.&nbsp;
Our team thanks Robyn Fizz.=20
<dd>Completed the wiring of all SM=92s in E19 (expected completion 12/16)=20
<dd>Continue preparation for adjunct systems (e.g. voicemail ACD, IVR,
modem pool, etc)=20
<dd>Upgrade the 3A Translator chip and test on the new 5ESS switch=20
<dd>Complete the moving of analog trunks over to new switch and report
procedure for the night of cut over (expected completion 12/16)=20
<dd>Begin test plans (begin testing the existing 5ESS for features,
capabilities modifying documentation for accuracy.&nbsp; Test plan to be
used on the new 5ESS switch with additional features and higher release
of software.=20
<dd>Set up of telephones in 3 office sites for pre and post cut over=20
<dd>Test the SAS announcements on new switch=20
<dd>Record all of the 5ESS announcements on the new switch=20
<dd>Test the ACD recent change/verify and MIS links=20
<dd>Record all the ACD announcements on the new switch=20
<dd>Record all the announcements for Facilities on the new switch=20
<dd>Test the VMail, 3A translator and 5ESS integration from the new
switch (off-hours) (integration, message waiting indicator functioning
and outcall abilities)=20
<dd>Continue tracing all special software configurations, links and other
misc. equipment running off of the 5ESS=20
<dd>Continue to review modem pool room in preparation of
conversion.&nbsp; Create procedure=20
<dd>Move all trunks over to new DSX panel (off hours required) (12/16)=20
<dd>Load all Switch Modules with current database=20
<dd>Perform dumps of new 5ESS OE=92s for new ICE 9 database=20
<dd>Complete cross connects of 22,000 lines=20
<dd>Install TTY and AMIS terminals for cut over=20
<dd>Get volunteers from TNS to assist on cut over weekend=20
<dd>Set up testing center (test class of services, features, mlhg, msg
waiting Indicator, etc.) Communicate with community=20
<dd>Seek out volunteers to work the MLK weekend=20
<dd>Create a cut over plan and strategy for team for MLK weekend=20
<dd>Work with CSR=92s, Operators to address any anomalies.=20
<dd>Be ready for cut over by January MLK weekend (e.g. starting Friday
night).<br>
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</dl><b><u>Issues:</u></b>
<dl>
<dd>As we begin to make progress on the wiring of the new equipment it is
increasingly difficult but not impossible to perform the day-to-day
service orders.&nbsp; Currently there are 3 Lucent techs wiring while 2-3
of our techs are installing or repairing on the MDF=92s.&nbsp; Though
frustrating at times, both teams have worked very well with each other.=20
<dd>&nbsp;=20
<dd>Access into buildings off hours was impeded by a lack of keys to gain
access. Thinking ahead to cut over weekend, this was going to be a huge
effect on service and maintenance.&nbsp; This was resolved with the help
of Vicki Sirianni and Mary Harrington.&nbsp; Thank you.&nbsp; They
provided us with two more sets of grand masters.<br>
<br>

<dd>After powering up all cabinets on the new 5ESS-2000, we encountered
some technical issues with the Switch Modules (SM=92s) configuration.&nbsp;
All SM=92s experienced the same =93errors=94 which were resolved by a softwa=
re
release upgrade or in some cases, hardware changes.<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<br>

<dd>When Lucent personnel issues arose and tensions increased, staffing
changes were strongly suggested to Lucent.&nbsp; These changes have had a
positive effect on satisfaction and productivity (60% more work began to
be completed).=20
<dd>&nbsp;=20
<dd>Lucent spent three weeks on a Command Module (CM3) problem.&nbsp;
They did not use resources for assistance provided by the 5Eops team and
they didn=92t follow through with additional investigative calls back to
the product development team.&nbsp; This problem surfaced in mid November
and when asked weekly for a pulse check, our team was told each time that
this was not an issue that would effect the date of cut over.&nbsp;
Unfortunately, Lucent realized the =93effect=94 the issue was having on the
flow of other related pieces of the switch installation.&nbsp; When
raised three weeks later as an issue, contacts at VP level were notified
and advised of disappointment in the project management and problem
resolution methods.&nbsp; Lucent is now committed to reaching the MLK cut
over date with additional staff and resources.&nbsp; Our team thanks Nate
Johnson for his strong leadership skills, support and strength during
these stressful meetings.&nbsp; <br>
<br>

<dd>At the regularly scheduled meeting following the big strategy meeting
with Lucent executives, we requested clarification on the configuration
of a shelf in one of the new SM=92s.&nbsp; The Lucent engineer dialed into
the switch to discuss the logical layout and described to us that the
database did not have anything in it.&nbsp; As hearts stopped in the
room, one mumbled to another=85 I think he=92s logged into the wrong switch=
=85
Quickly the team began discussing how to recover the lost data when low
and behold the engineer from Lucent admitted he goofed.&nbsp; He logged
into the correct site (MIT) but, the wrong switch=85 he was looking at the
existing classic 5ESS.&nbsp; Another example of how Lucent makes this
project and the people on the team hyper vigilent at all times.<br>
<br>

<dd>The 5ESS Service Team made up of 6 staff members and one voucher
employee are displaying signs of stress and burnout.&nbsp; All
individuals are working 110 % (full time) on the project as well as
performing their day-to-day responsibilities at 110%.&nbsp; The staff is
being spread thin.&nbsp; The 5ESS Service team tends to handle issues
that have no home.&nbsp; Therefore, the team will spend a significant
amount of time on outside problem resolutions and become more frustrated
and stressed for the distraction.&nbsp;&nbsp; (I continue to address this
issue gently, cleverly and creatively).&nbsp; Thank you to those who
recognize the magnitude and complexity of this project and have offered
their assistance and encouragement.&nbsp;=20
<dl>
<dl><font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">
<dd>%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab></font>Communi=
cation
issues were prominent this month as we near crunch time.&nbsp;
Misunderstandings regarding the 5ESS implementation plan and services
available to customers before and after the switch cut over
cultivated.&nbsp; Specifically, rumors spread on the availability in 24
with SM6 after cut over.&nbsp;&nbsp; The actual plan is that we
re-engineered the 24 site to handle all lines currently in service and
spares of both ISDN and analog off of SM5.&nbsp;&nbsp; After the cut, the
old classic cabinets will be removed and SM 6 will go on line as
scheduled.&nbsp; This will have <u>no effect</u> on the community, the 5E
support team or VDIST.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This temporary solution will be
a transparent to all outside of 5E Ops.<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">
<dd>%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab></font>Once
the team identified the =93quiet period=94 we received interesting questions
and/or concerns (E.g. the operators received a phone calls from customers
that were =93disappointed that they couldn=92t have a telephone for a
month.=94)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Misunderstandings and confusion stirred
regarding services availability (e.g. length of time in quiet period,
expressing quiet period to customers when request for services come in,
etc.).&nbsp; This was addressed and hopefully resolved by Nate=92s meeting
on 12/14/01 with all of TNS team members related to telephones services,
support and infrastructure.&nbsp;=20
</dl>
</dl>
</dl><br>
<font face=3D"ZapfDingbats"><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp=
;&nbsp;</x-tab><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-ta=
b>%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab></font>VDIST
is going to provide as much assistance as possible by using
<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;=
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&=
nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>their
influence to guide cutomer projects around the cut over.&nbsp;=20
<dl>
<dl>
<dl><font face=3D"ZapfDingbats">
<dd>%<x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab></font>Documen=
tation
with strategy for going forward on MLK weekend needs to be created to
ensure things like food, cots, rotation schedules, etc. are addressed and
available to volunteers.
</dl>
</dl>
</dl><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab><br>
Team Dynamics:=20
<dl>
<dd>The 5ESS core team and additional resources being utilized come from
a strong foundation (or that the super glue is working).&nbsp; Increased
workloads, longer hours and outside frustrations are increasing stress
levels for all in E19 (6<font size=3D1><sup>th</sup></font> &amp;
7<font size=3D1><sup>th</sup></font> floors).&nbsp;&nbsp; The TNS team is
made up of very talented individuals.&nbsp; Their efforts, skills, and
determination are making this project appear to the outside world as
simple though in reality it=92s very complex.&nbsp; <br>
<br>

<dd>The team is doing an outstanding job with balancing the stress from
the day-to-day issues and the project issues (it is a good sign when the
team is still laughing at my jokes).
</dl>Key Learnings:=20
<dl>
<dd><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>Look
before you leap, use tact and courtesy, learn to listen, learn to laugh,=20
<dd><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>Communica=
te
often and to many=20
<dd><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab>Always
stay alert=20
<dd>Appreciate every effort contributed=20
<dd><x-tab>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</x-tab><br>
<br>
<br>
<br>

</dl><font color=3D"#0000FF">Thanks,<br>
Lu<br>
<br>
=BA</font><font color=3D"#800080">=BF</font><font color=3D"#0000FF">=BA</fon=
t>
<br>
<font color=3D"#FF0000">&nbsp;~</font> </blockquote>
<x-sigsep><p></x-sigsep>
<font color=3D"#0000FF">Thanks,<br>
Lu<br>
<br>
=BA</font><font color=3D"#800080">=BF</font><font color=3D"#0000FF">=BA</fon=
t>
<br>
<font color=3D"#FF0000">&nbsp;~</font> </html>

--=====================_23824063==_.ALT--


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