A Checklist for Release Management

In the continual quest for process improvement we have come up with a basic checklist to be used before releasing systems into production. This is fairly 'lightweight' but it gets the job done:

• Backup plan has been established and is operational
• Anti-virus exclusions and other non-standard configuration is complete
• Appropriate system/service monitoring is operational
• Startup and shutdown procedures have been documented
• System has been added to the restart schedule as appropriate
• Initial support documentation is complete
• Service has been added to Service Catalog
• Appropriate asset list additions and modifications are complete
• Service Desk has received overview and basic training
• Go-live plan established and communicated

This checklist is completed and attached to a Change Request within our IT Service Management System and flows through a standard CAB process before the system is authorized to transition to production.

Input and suggestions are always appreciated.