The need for IT documentation

Imagine a network with 20 computers all connected to the internet through a router.  Someone purchases a laptop and requires the encryption key for the wireless network.  You ask around and no one has it and because all the computers have a wired connection you can’t get it off them either.  You think no problem I will connect to the router and get it that way but hey what is the username and password for the router? Sound familiar?

There is one thing that the majority of people working in the IT industry hate and that is documenting their work.  The problem is that a lot of them don’t do it or do it badly and this is an issue.  The issue arises when one IT technician leaves and another comes in and has no idea how the network has been configured.  They will have to check all the configurations themselves before they do any work and this takes time.  Documenting itself does take time but it has the following benefits:

1. You know exactly how the network or system is configured so you can get straight to troubleshooting a problem.

2. Documentation gives you a baseline from which to work.  When you have a baseline in place you can easily tell when something is wrong with the system or network.

3. If you leave and someone else takes over you will make it substantially easier for them to know how the system is set up.

4. Very easy to locate passwords for such things as wireless encryption (this can also be a bad thing too).

5. Easier to manage ongoing maintenance.  You know what has already been done.

Having good documentation in place makes a strong business case as it will save you time and also money.

About the Author

Hi I am Chris the owner of ComTech. I provide IT Support and Computer repairs to both personal and business clients in and around Stirling. For a list of what I can offer you why not visit my website www.comtech247.net where you will find my blog, testimonials, services and much more.  Start supporting a local business today so I can start supporting you.

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