2.1 Components of the Software Deployment Process

Basics

A well-organized software deployment process ensures that software is installed, configured, and maintained efficiently across all devices supported by a school district.

While it is not expected that every technician has full awareness of every stage of this process, it can be helpful to recognize the elements that might be happening “behind the scenes” during the process. The stages of software deployment include:

  1. Planning and assessment. Assessing your organization’s requirements and developing a project plan based on the scope and objectives of your deployment.

  2. Engaging and communicating with stakeholders. Managing expectations and providing opportunities for support and feedback during the deployment.

  3. Configuration management. Configuring the software solution(s) you plan to deploy.

  4. Testing. A most important step to make sure your planned configuration(s) operate both reliably and efficiently.

  5. Deployment. The actual installation and configuration of devices with new software.

  6. Monitoring and maintenance. Ongoing work to ensure the new software configurations are effective and operate as expected.

  7. Continuous improvement. A process of periodic review to monitor and improve systems, processes, and procedures.

This section has subpages for each of the stages or phases of a typical managed software deployment process listed above, alongside the roles that a Level 1 Technician might play within each stage.

Here are additional resources you may find useful:

  • Unleashing the Power of Learning Software Deployment - Liberty Technology
  • Microsoft Learn offers free training on Microsoft Intune and other Microsoft tools.
  • Google for Education provides training resources for managing Chromebooks and Google Workspace.
  • Apple Teacher is a free professional learning program for Apple products.
  • Online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on IT management and software deployment.
  • Join relevant professional communities and forums for peer support and knowledge sharing.


Complete the following task or self-assessment:

Familiarize yourself with the tools and systems used in your school for software deployment, such as Microsoft Intune, Google Workspace, or Apple School Manager. Read the official documentation and support materials for these tools to understand their features and capabilities. Much of this may be found online, so be sure to visit the official websites and support pages for Microsoft Intune, Google Workspace, and Apple School Manager.