This communication should begin on a monthly basis once the project is committed. Progress reporting to management is also essential. Typically, for a period on the order of three weeks prior and two weeks after the cutover, business areas, MIS and others must recognize that any significant activity or change not only jeopardizes the data center move, but may in itself be at risk. Freeze period exceptions are to be expected, but must be closely managed. Often, top management must be called on to intervene.
Exercises are as essential to a data center move as they are to a disaster recovery.
Beginning at least a couple of months prior to the cutover, tabletop walkthroughs of the cutover should be held with the entire project team, including vendors and affected customers. Dress rehearsals will identify many potential glitches and smooth over rough spots. Timing of the actual cutover process is scheduled with military precision. Backup staffing is on standby. Supplementary communications and transportation are in place.