IBM R5 Document Experiences, Problems, and Solutions, Monitor Servers and Assist Users as Needed

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Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide

June 18, 2001

 

 

Be certain to allow sufficient time not only to perform the tasks involved in this part of the project, such as doing system backups, installing equipment and software, checking for problems, and training, but also allow time to record issues encountered, solutions created, and feedback. This initial investment of time results in streamlined procedures and increased satisfaction.

Identify any dependencies in your process and be certain to schedule appropriately. For example, you may need to upgrade the workstation’s operating system before you can install the client, and you should not move on until this step is complete. Remember that the process of implementation can not begin until the install team is organized and has developed procedures for completing the tasks.

Be sure to create accountability by assigning a person or group the responsibility of each item on the schedule and a date when that item needs to be completed. Allow some flexibility in the schedule and in the due dates to accommodate unexpected issues and the need for learning.

Once the schedule is complete, start implementation. Remember to document problems encountered and their solutions, as well as any other feedback or suggestions. Make modifications to procedures where appropriate.

15. Document Experiences, Problems, and Solutions

The most important item of this Domino implementation project is the documentation of the administrator’s and end users’ feedback. Feedback should be gathered from the very beginning all the way through the end of the project, once or twice a week. It should be shared by conducting meetings with key players in the project and placed in a discussion database which will serve as a knowledge base of issues and errors, and their solutions for future use. Also, document any suggestions you receive and modify the installation plan when appropriate.

This information is very important to the success of the implementation project and allows you to plan so as not to make the same mistakes twice. The information should be as detailed as possible, to include the problem, its solution, and any and all steps along the way. This level of detail will be a key factor in smoothing your Domino installation plan and provide a better chance of success and greater end user satisfaction with the overall process.

16. Monitor Servers and Assist Users as Needed

Once the implementation plan has been completed, it’s time to monitor Domino Server usage and assist end users. This can be considered as the “day to day” operations of a Domino environment. Without getting into great detail about Domino Administration, you’ll probably want to monitor such things as disk space, disk utilization, network bandwidth (especially over WAN connections), server response time, shared memory segment and semaphore utilization, replication events, user name changes, and Domino logs. Be prepared to help end users with possible error messages that may be encountered while using the Notes client.

Make sure that documentation is maintained to collect problems and their solutions, as well as feedback and suggestions. This feedback adds value to the knowledge base of information already collected for future use in troubleshooting problems. This information should be readily accessible to all administrators and support staff.

17. Correct any Potential Performance or Configuration Issues as They Are Identified

When any problem arises, the administrator should document the issue and identify a solution in a timely manner. Keeping the servers fine-tuned is vital to a healthy Domino environment. Monitoring server performance is a daily job, and should be done faithfully in order to maintain peak performance.

18. Follow Up Training for Administrators and End Users as Needed

As your Domino environment grows and matures, you may find it necessary to conduct additional training for administrators, and new employees. Be prepared to provide this training as needed.

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Contents Revised June 18 Disclaimer PSeries Lotus Domino Server e-business Solution Overview Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide Supported Software Releases Domino Release AIX ReleasePTF Matrix Component Recommended LevelNetwork Protocols and Topology Performance GuidelinesWhat Affects Application Responsiveness? Network TopologyKnow the Configuration Steps to Maximum Domino PerformanceOther Workload Factors Distribute I/O Across Physical Disks Log Performance Metrics ConsistentlyOptimize for Domino R5 Know the Symptoms of Server Over-Utilization Make Use of NotesBench DataLearn from Semaphores Consider Partitioning Know When to Consolidate and When to DistributeConsider Clustering Lotus NotesBench28,032 38,235 $23.91 $17.53 Sizing Guidelines Domino R5 on AIX Client Type R5 Scalability IncreaseDomino R5 on AIX Specifics RS/6000 Domino Server Sizing Tool Medium Configuration Sample ConfigurationsSmall Configuration Large ConfigurationEducation Pre-installation SupportPre-sales Technical Support Course Name Course Cost Course Duration Course NumberLotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide Select an Install Team Implementation Process OverviewServers Train Domino and Network AdministratorsNetwork WorkstationsSetup a Pilot Project Create an Install Plan for the Network Infrastructure Create or Modify an Existing Disaster Recovery Plan Hardware Operating SystemServer Workstation Schedule and Perform the Installation of the Domino Servers Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide Document Experiences, Problems, and Solutions Monitor Servers and Assist Users as NeededLotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide Checklist for Implementation Completed?Check your Default Path Environment Variable Installation StepsLogin to AIX as the Root User Preparing the AIX EnvironmentCreate a Volume Group Create AIX GroupsCreate AIX Users Create a Logical Volume for the Domino Data Directory Create a Logical Volume for the Domino BinariesCreate a File System for the Domino Data Directory Mount the File Systems Check AIX Kernel ConfigurationCreate a File System for the Domino Binaries Change Ownership of the New File SystemsMounting the Cdrom Installing the Lotus Domino ServerRun the Install Program From the CD Welcome ScreenConfiguration Review Select the Type of Domino Server to InstallSetup for Partitioned Domino Servers File Installation CompleteNetwork and Communication Settings Start the Http Server Task For Server ConfigurationAdministration Settings Server Setup is CompletePost-installation Support Domino Product SupportAIX Support Hardware SupportServices Available Service Description ContactAdditional Technical Resources URLsRedbooks Publications Appendix A. Sample Configurator Configurations Small ConfigurationCD-ROM Medium Configuration Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation GuideJune 18 CD-ROM Large Configuration Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation GuideJune 18 CD-ROM Appendix B. IBM Production Configuration Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide

R5 specifications

IBM R5, also known as IBM Notes R5, marked a significant evolution in the IBM Notes and Domino platform, offering users enhanced capabilities and features that improved productivity and collaboration in the workplace. Released in 1999, R5 introduced a more refined user interface, improved performance, and a range of new tools designed to facilitate communication and teamwork.

One of the standout features of IBM R5 was its comprehensive integration of email, calendaring, and tasks within a single interface. This centralized approach allowed users to manage their communications more efficiently, reducing the need to switch between multiple applications. The improved email functionality included enhanced filtering and sorting capabilities, enabling users to better organize their inboxes.

The R5 version also introduced significant advancements in the collaborative aspects of the platform. With new tools for team collaboration, such as enhanced discussion databases and a shared documents feature, R5 made it easier for teams to work together on projects irrespective of their physical locations. The introduction of instant messaging capabilities further bridged communication gaps, allowing users to connect in real time.

IBM R5 was built on a robust architecture that incorporated Domino server enhancements, which improved scalability and performance. The platform supported new technologies, including Java applets, allowing developers to build more dynamic and interactive applications. Additionally, the integration of the LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) provided better directory services, making it simpler to manage user identities across the network.

Security features were also a focus in R5, with improvements in encryption and user authentication that helped safeguard sensitive data. The platform’s ability to integrate with other enterprise applications while maintaining robust security protocols made it a choice for organizations that prioritized data protection.

Moreover, IBM R5 incorporated a more modular and flexible architecture, enabling easier customization and management of applications and components. This adaptability catered to a wide range of business needs, thus positioning IBM Notes R5 as a versatile solution for organizations looking to enhance their workflow and communication processes.

Overall, IBM R5 served as a milestone in the evolution of enterprise collaboration solutions. Its innovative features, user-friendly interface, and robust security measures laid the foundation for future developments in the IBM Notes and Domino ecosystem, ultimately contributing to more efficient and effective business practices.
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