Application Operation

Definition

Application operation is the operations task during which applications are manually executed and monitored.

Objectives

The typical objectives of the application operation task are:

• Run batch software applications.
• Monitor the execution of software applications.

Preconditions

The application operation task can typically begin when the following preconditions hold:

• The usage phase has begun.
• The operations team has been adequately staffed with computer operators. who are adequately trained and experienced in application operation.
• Applications have been installed in their production environments, configured, and tested during the delivery phase.

Completion Criteria

The application operation task is typically complete when the following postconditions hold:

• The retirement phase has begun.
• The applications have been retired.

Steps

The application operation task typically involves the following teams performing the following steps in an interative, incremental, parallel, and time-boxed manner:

• Computer Operator(s) of the Operations Team:
  • Run Batch Software Applications:
    • Load batch software applications (e.g., monthly reports).
    • Input commands to execute batch software applications.
    • Control the execution of batch software applications (e.g., by responding to on-screen computer messages or hardware control-panel lights).
  • Monitor Software Application Execution:
    • Monitor the execution of software applications (e.g., for hardware or software failures).
    • Where practical, fix any associated defects (e.g., load patches).
    • Issue problem reports and help programmers debug the associated software applications.

Techniques

The application operation task can typically be performed using the following techniques:

• TBD

Work Products

The application operation task typically results in the production of all or part of the following work products:

• Operations Work Products:
  • Operations Log (Application operation task performances)

Guidelines

• A person who plays the operator role:
  • Often also plays the systems administrator role.
  • May also play the user support agent role.