ON-POINT Insight #06 - expertise from the consulting frontline
Funny Hats and Firewall Rules — Go-Live Survival Tips by Vlad Stoenescu
Lately, I have been working on several cut-over training sessions for ON-POINT, the consulting boutique I have been working for since 2017. The training, Kerstin Lehmann, ON-POINT managing partner and I have developed covers the necessary organisation, processes and technical aspects required for a successful cutover, whilst also touching on the management style.
Why Go-Live Is No Laughing Matter (Or Is It?)
Okay, maybe it’s not exactly a stand-up comedy routine, but there’s no reason why we can’t inject a little humour into this serious business of launching a new system.
After all, when you’re dealing with new technology, unexpected surprises can crop up. Like the time we were preparing for a Go-Live, and the team discovered that the entire system had been developed in Comic Sans font. We had to go back to the drawing board and make some serious changes because no one can take a system seriously if it’s written in the same font as a third-grader’s birthday party invitation.
Humour Helps, But Preparation Wins
But in all seriousness, preparing for a Go-Live is important stuff. Not only does it involve rigorous testing and training, but it also requires an ability to stay calm under pressure. Because let’s face it, when something goes wrong during a Go-Live, it can feel like the entire world is crashing down on you.
That’s why it’s important to have a support team in place during a Go-Live. These are the folks who will keep everyone calm and focused, even when the system is misbehaving like a toddler who’s had too much sugar. They’ll help troubleshoot any problems that arise and keep everyone on track, even if that means making a few jokes to lighten the mood.
In fact, I once heard of a support team that wore funny hats during a go-live. It may seem like a small thing, but during high-stress moments, a silly hat can do wonders to remind you that this too shall pass.
Beyond Humour: Essentials for a Smooth Go-Live
Humour helps, but it won’t carry a cutover by itself. These essentials need to be in place for a successful Go-Live:
Have a well-defined plan: Outline the steps and tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the go-live. A clear plan keeps everyone aligned and reduces the risk of mistakes.
- Test rigorously: Ensure the new system functions correctly and that issues are identified and resolved before the big day.
Provide proper training: Give thorough instruction to all users on the new system and processes. Training builds confidence and reduces the risk of errors.
Communicate clearly: Keep all stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the go-live process. Transparency reduces confusion and ensures alignment.
Have a strong support team: Troubleshoot problems as they arise, keep everyone calm and maintain focus — even under pressure.
Final Thought: Pack Your Funny Hat
So, the next time you’re preparing for a Go-Live, remember: spreadsheets and checklists will keep you structured, but a bit of humour might just keep you sane. A silly hat won’t solve firewall issues — but it can remind everyone that the world won’t end if the system hiccups.
We’ve been through enough Go-Lives to know that success comes from the right balance of planning, experience, and keeping your cool under pressure (with or without the hat).
At ON-POINT, we bring consulting expertise from the front line — helping you deliver complex projects with confidence. Reach out to Vlad Stoenescu to start the conversation.