Chapter 8. Implementation
The actual process of replacing or migrating from a legacy telephony system to a new-world Cisco IP Telephony (IPT) system can be a challenging task if you do not have the proper tasks, tools, and processes in place.Whereas the previous chapters provided the design and configuration parameters required for actual implementation of the Cisco IPT solution, this chapter helps you to smoothly and successfully complete the IPT implementation phase by discussing in detail implementation tasks, tools, processes, common problems, and possible causes and resolutions of those problems. CallManager provides various tools that assist you in the implementation and in day-to-day operations. Identify which tools you need to use and learn how and when to use them during the implementation. This chapter discusses some of these tools that are applicable in the implementation phase of IPT. Some tools discussed in this chapter can be used in both the implementation phase and the operations and optimization phase. Chapter 9, "Operations and Optimization," discusses the tools that are not covered in this chapter.A detailed implementation plan will help you to deploy the IPT solution within the estimated time and without facing major hurdles. The following are the major tasks involved in the implementation of IPT networks:Complete preimplementation tasks.Perform implementation readiness analysis.Implement IPT components.Identify the implementation tools.Deploy IPT solution pilot.Develop IPT acceptance tests.Complete postimplementation documentation.Develop a support strategy.Develop a training plan for end users and network administrators.
In large IPT deployments, it is common to subcontract the actual deployment of IP Phones to a partner. In this case, you should review the implementation plan with the partner's IPT deployment team to make sure that all the preceding tasks are covered in detail. This ensures successful deployment of an IPT network that conforms to the proposed design.