The critical need for post-installation pilot testing

In an earlier post, I discussed the benefits of performing pre-installation pilot testing when deploying a municipal wireless network. The results of this pilot testing are good for comparing competing solution providers, and you’ll often uncover technology issues and learn valuable lessons before selecting the winning bidder.In my earlier post on the benefits of pre-installation pilot testing when deploying a municipal wireless network, I noted that the results of this type of testing allow you to compare competing solution providers before you select a winning bidder.

Another time that pilot testing makes sense is after the network is installed and ready for operation. In addition to performing acceptance testing, a municipality should activate the network as a pilot for a specific amount of time. This can be done in only parts of the municipality, which keeps the initial surge of traffic to a manageable level.

The pilot will give you time, with a limited number of users, to identify trouble spots and implement effective solutions. The goal is to keep from stressing the system too hard before opening access to all parts of the municipality. For example, if the pilot testing indicates difficulties with users connecting to the network and mesh node configurations are found to be the problem, then it’s possible to make corrections throughout the rest of the system without impacting a much greater number of users.

Some municipalities offer access to the pilot solution free-of-charge. That’s a good idea to get users active on the network. Just be sure, though, to properly set expectations. If you’ll be charging for accessing the network after going fully operational, then certainly let users know.

If the network will be supporting specific public safety applications, then it’s a good idea to do some application pilot testing and work out any wrinkles before using the applications on a widespread basis.

For example, streaming video from police cars is a great application, but try out the solution with one or two police cars first before enabling the entire police car fleet. You’ll need some assurances that the additional video traffic on the network will not cause any major troubles and resolve any usage issues. After fully testing the application with a small set of actual users and resolving any applicable issues, the network will bee in a much better position to support the application.

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Jim Geier is an independent consultant and founder of Wireless-Nets, Ltd (www.wireless-nets.com), a consulting firm assisting municipalities, enterprises, hospitals, airports, and equipment providers with the development and deployment of wireless networks.