Introduction
Deploying software updates is an essential part of any IT operation. However, the timing of these deployments can have a significant impact on the success and smoothness of the process. In this article, we will discuss why deploying software updates on Fridays is not recommended and what alternative days you should consider instead.
Risks of Deploying on Fridays
Reduced Availability of Support Personnel Fridays are often a day where many employees take time off work, or work shorter hours. This means that if something goes wrong with a deployment, there may be limited support personnel available to fix any issues that arise.
The Weekend Effect
If something goes wrong with a deployment on a Friday, it could potentially persist over the weekend, causing further problems and potentially impacting customers. This is especially problematic for businesses that rely on their software systems to operate over the weekend, as any issues will go unresolved until Monday.
Increased Stress for Support Personnel
Deploying software updates can be a stressful process, and adding the time pressure of the weekend can make it even more so. This can lead to support personnel making mistakes or rushing through the process, increasing the risk of issues arising.
Impact on Productivity
If a deployment goes wrong on a Friday, it can impact productivity for both IT staff and end-users. This is especially true if the issue persists over the weekend, leading to further downtime and reduced productivity. Alternatives to Deploying on Fridays
Midweek Deployments
Deploying updates midweek, such as on a Tuesday or Wednesday, can minimize the risks associated with deploying on a Friday. This allows for adequate time to fix any issues that arise and ensures that support personnel are available throughout the process.
Scheduling Deployments Outside of Business Hours
Another option is to schedule deployments outside of normal business hours, such as overnight or on weekends. This minimizes the impact on end-users and reduces the stress on support personnel.