Step 1: Centralize all hardware and installed software information. Agencies likely already have a unified endpoint management tool at their fingertips that’s centralizing the required data, such as Microsoft Configuration Manager, Ivanti Unified Endpoint Manager or a number of others. These tools are invaluable for condensing endpoint information and generating Windows 11 readiness reports.
Step 2: Compile an assessment report. Once admins have centralized all endpoint data, they must compare hardware and installed software to Microsoft’s Windows 11 system requirements. This is the chance to dig into details, determine where an agency needs upgrades and start budget planning. The report should include endpoints to be addressed prior to a Windows 11 migration and recommended actions to take on the endpoints. This is also the time to identify mission-critical endpoints that might need some extra attention.
Step 3: Consult vendors for mission-critical software. For mission-critical software applications, consult vendors directly to confirm Windows 11 compatibility. Vendors for proprietary or custom-built business applications should be able to advise whether their software will function properly after migration or if patches, updates or other mitigations will be required. Vendor communication can reveal compatibility red flags early in the process, giving an agency time to make contingency plans.
Compatibility is the cornerstone of an agency’s Windows 11 migration strategy. Failing to thoroughly assess compatibility can lead to a host of problems, ranging from minor glitches to major operational disruptions.
READ MORE: State and local government agencies migrate to Microsoft Windows 11.
Testing and Performance Monitoring for Windows 11 Migration Success
A well-planned testing phase can catch issues that might otherwise disrupt the entire migration process. The key is to make test scenarios as close to real-world conditions as possible, covering different hardware configurations, user profiles and common tasks.
Step 1: Create a robust test plan that mimics real-world use. Draft a detailed test plan that outlines various scenarios that reflect how state or local agencies operate day to day. Categorize tests into sections, such as hardware performance, software compatibility, networking and end user experience.
Step 2: Select pilot users across departments and roles. Using a government HR system or Active Directory, pull a diverse list of users across departments, locations and roles. This ensures that the pilot group represents a wide cross-section of actual use cases. Aim to have at least one pilot user from each department who can test typical tasks and workflows. Broad pilot testing exposes compatibility issues that may impact certain roles disproportionately.
Step 3: Implement feedback surveys to capture user experiences. Create online surveys, forms or questionnaires to capture detailed feedback from pilot users. Include open-ended questions about overall experience, system performance, compatibility issues, feature impressions and potential frustrations. Quantitative data can miss subjective insights that surveys illuminate. Compile feedback in a report to drive improvements.
Step 4: Monitor performance with real-time metrics. Complement subjective user feedback with objective performance data. Use monitoring tools to track metrics such as CPU use, memory utilization, boot times and network bandwidth, for example. Compare before-and-after data to quantify the impact of migrating to Windows 11. Let hard metrics identify underperforming areas.
The testing and pilot phase provides invaluable insights, from subjective feedback and objective data. Use this dry run to refine agency training, upgrades, rollout pacing and communication strategy. Thorough testing is crucial for unveiling and addressing pain points before full production deployment.
INTERVIEW: Microsoft public sector guru James Collins talks Windows 11.
