Operations Management

We recommend that schools implement the FITS reactive and change processes, problem and security management to a level of maturity before tackling the FITS operations management functions. This is because all the operations management functions use the other FITS processes to manage the activities within them. For example, if technical support installs a new storage device following the function specification 'storage management', the FITS processes used would be as follows.

To check whether your school has implemented all of the FITS processes to a level of maturity, you may like to request a FITS assessment or attend the FITS training courses.

FITS Operations Management is our structured approach designed to help schools to achieve operational excellence in managing and administering the technology of their ICT infrastructure. The technology comprises the network components that support the ICT services used for learning, teaching and management:

Managing your operation is a key element of the implementation of a technical support framework. In larger organisations many of the components of operations management will be undertaken alongside the initial phases.

Operations Management involves managed and recorded introduction of changes to hardware, software, services or documentation to minimise disruption to ICT operation and maintain accurate configuration information.

Within Operations Management we include the following processes;

Provides day-to-day administrative services in support of the technology in the ICT infrastructure. 

This defines, tracks and maintains data and data resources in the school's ICT environment. 

This area covers setting up and administering the directory services on the school's network. It stores information such as names of users, computers and other equipment etc. as objects with descriptive attributes.  

This ensures that all printed and electronic material is produced in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, using the most appropriate hardware and software available. 

This area deals with the detection of infrastructure activity and its impact on th components.

In order for your network to work properly, every component of the network must work properly. Preventative maintenance is concerned with anything that can be done to prevent any component of your infrastructure from failing.

The aim of this section is to minimise the impact on ICT service of an environmental disaster and put in place and communicate a plan for recovery.

This section focuses on methods that can be employed to help monitor and reduce the amount of energy used by your school’s ICT infrastructure.