We debated about the maintenance of server login scripts that are global in nature but directly affect the client's environment. One mistake here and nobody logs on. We eventually devised a responsibility matrix and assigned each team sole, primary or secondary responsibility. We arranged it so these issues could be effectively handled by one team whenever possible. Now the server administrators have time to do their jobs properly, and we have a clear focus on server availability and care.
Maintenance is applied in a timely manner, and hardware is up to date.
We've developed a set of common standards for both hardware and server OSes. We do capacity planning, endure fewer crisis situations, and actually have a disaster plan. Finally, we can spend adequate time on projects, such as our recent migration to NetWare 4. These days, the servers are happy. Stephen Litchfield is a senior staff LAN analyst at a Massachusetts-based manufacturer.