Pre-Production Go-Live Checklist

When to Use This Checklist

The Pre-Production Go-Live Checklist is a critical tool in your migration journey. Use this checklist just before transitioning to the new system or platform to ensure that all necessary verifications, configurations, and tests are complete. This phase is pivotal as it determines the success of your migration and the stability of the system post-launch.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Checklist Item

1. Final Testing

   • What to do: Conduct comprehensive testing, including unit tests, integration tests, and user acceptance testing (UAT).
   • Why it matters: Ensures functionality and performance meet requirements.
   • Verification: Check test results and confirm that all critical use cases have passed.

2. Data Integrity Check

   • What to do: Validate that all data migrated correctly without corruption or loss.
   • Why it matters: Protects against data discrepancies that can lead to operational issues.
   • Verification: Compare sample data sets from the old and new systems.

3. Backup Procedures

   • What to do: Ensure that backup systems and processes are in place and functioning.
   • Why it matters: Safeguards against data loss during or after migration.
   • Verification: Test backup and restore functionality to confirm its reliability.

4. User Training

   • What to do: Conduct training sessions for all users on new systems and processes.
   • Why it matters: Enhances user confidence and reduces operational errors post-launch.
   • Verification: Gather feedback and assess user readiness through surveys or quizzes.

5. Security Review

   • What to do: Perform a thorough security audit of the new system.
   • Why it matters: Protects against potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
   • Verification: Document findings and ensure remediation of any identified issues.

6. Monitoring Setup

   • What to do: Configure monitoring tools for performance and error tracking.
   • Why it matters: Allows for proactive identification of issues in real-time.
   • Verification: Check that monitoring alerts are set up and functioning correctly.

7. Stakeholder Approval

   • What to do: Obtain final sign-off from key stakeholders and decision-makers.
   • Why it matters: Ensures alignment and support from all parties involved.
   • Verification: Document approvals and any conditions attached to the go-live.

8. Cutover Plan

   • What to do: Have a detailed plan for switching from the old system to the new one, including timelines and responsibilities.
   • Why it matters: Minimizes downtime and confusion during the transition.
   • Verification: Review the plan with the team to confirm understanding and readiness.

9. Rollback Plan

   • What to do: Establish a clear plan for reverting to the old system in case of failure.
   • Why it matters: Provides a safety net and reduces risk during the go-live.
   • Verification: Ensure all team members are aware of the rollback procedure.

10. Communication Plan

• What to do: Set up a communication strategy for informing stakeholders about the go-live.
• Why it matters: Keeps everyone informed and reduces anxiety around the transition.
• Verification: Share the plan with the team and stakeholders before launch.

Common Items Teams Forget or Underestimate

• Final Testing: Often rushed or improperly conducted.
• User Training: Neglecting this can lead to frustration and errors.
• Backup Procedures: Failing to verify backups can be catastrophic if issues arise.

Adapting This Checklist for Different Contexts

• For Cloud Migrations: Include checks for cloud-specific configurations and security settings.
• For Large Enterprises: Consider additional layers of approval and broader stakeholder engagement due to complexity.

Integration with Other Migration Phases and Checklists

This checklist is designed to integrate seamlessly with other migration phases, such as:

• Pre-Migration Checklist: Ensures readiness before migration starts.
• Post-Go-Live Checklist: Validates that the system is functioning correctly after launch.

By following this Pre-Production Go-Live Checklist, teams can mitigate risks and ensure a smoother transition to their new systems, enhancing overall project success.