Server Hardware Installation

This section describes and defines the processes and procedures that will be used to manage catalog requests to perform the physical installation of a server. The work will include providing power and network cabling, testing power and network connectivity using standard test hardware, and installation of the server. It does not include software installation of operating systems, middleware or applications.

The catalog request will be created by the a build coordinator or team leader of a hardware installation team. Typically, multiple approvals are required. The final approval of the catalog request signals the start of any SLAs.

Authorization

The creation and approval process is complex and is sometimes described as part of a larger server build process. In some organizations, the tasks are performed by different groups. Typically in smaller organizations some of the steps clearly will not be as detailed or be subjected to detailed reviews. However, in most large enterprises, checks and balances are in place to ensure the continuous business operations, and these enterprises will have the steps that are described in the following sections of this topic. The tasks of the approvers include verification of funding for the request. Multiple approvers may be required in some organizations.

Notifications are sent to the service requisition user indicating the disposition of the approval request.

The following tasks are performed as part of the authorization process:
  • Prerequisite action (catalog request order form)
  • Approve request (manager)
  • Approve Request (Environment Owner or Second Manager)

Fulfillment

This procedure begins when the project manager receives a catalog order that involves a subset of tasks to installation of a new server. The procedure ends when all activities related to physical installation of new server (cabling, rack installation, power and network activation) are completed and the catalog request is closed.

The roles responsible for completion of this request are the Rack and Cabling Specialist, The Network Specialist, and the Server Installation Specialist.

The following tasks are performed as part of the fulfillment process:
  • Install rack and cabling
  • Complete network implementation
  • Complete server install and cabling

Resource assignment

Resources are allotted by direct assignment by the Environment Owner to the specialist or the team queue. Assignment activities are described as part of the fulfillment activities as the assignments are made.

Role assignment

Table 1. Role assignment for Server Hardware Installation
Role Responsibilities related to server initial build requests
Requester Coordinates the front end of the server build request process and performs service request validation and closure activities.
Manager Reviews and approves request. The criteria for approval is primarily approval of the project and funding.
Second Approver Usually another manager or team lead or environment owner is responsible for reviewing the completeness of the request, the technical feasibility of the request, and assigning the work.
Power and Cabling Installer Performs all the work of cabling, and work required for installing the server on a rack.
Network Specialist Network team assigns IP addresses, configures switches, and ports. After Network Team completes their respective activities, Updates are made to SR comments, and emails the server installation specialist.
Server Install Specialist Performs the actual installation of the server on the rack, powers the server and tests basic server power up and network connectivity. The server is now ready for OS and software installation, perhaps remotely. The requester is e-mailed, and the service request is closed.