Task timeframes.

[Jake]

Anyone know where I can get a list of estimated times to perform various tasks??

I remember seeing something like it on the Becta site several months ago, but cant find it anymore.

Basically what I am after is something that shows the rough estimates of how long it should take to do things, everything from changing a mouse to configuring and integrating a new server etc.

Reason why I want it is because we are attempting to convince the head that we could really use another technician, be it part time or full time. We have seperate admin/curriculum networks, 400+ pcs, half dozen or so servers and 60 laptops with a further 32 laptops being implemented shortly. The head is determined that we dont need another tech, and today exclaimed that we have no need of one as we arent busy (yes you got it, the old "they sit around doing nothing" type of underlying belief).

With the 2 of us, there is often a backlog of jobs needing doing, and this is the case at the moment, as we are currently merging some of our old servers into new ones, implementing Liberum, a moodle style system and of course the normal day to day stuff.

Something like this would be handy to show the Head just how long tasks "should" take us. Doubt it will change her mind at all about getting a third pair of hands, but at least its something more weighty than just spoken words.

[palmer_eldritch]

If you have a backlog of jobs, put time estimates on that as a start to show your head. Then add the routine jobs you need to do. It'll soon add up.

What did your last OFSTED say about how IT is used where you are? Any mention of room for improvement could also be used to persuade.

[Jake]

Yeah, have done lists of current outstanding jobs with estimated timescales on them. Just wanted something thats more "official" than me

Well, we havent been ofsted'ed since 1999, and sadly most of the content of that report is either not relevant anymore or has already been implemented. We are due another ofsted soon though.

[mark]

Why don't you start the list then Jake? Then it can be fine tuned. What about adding it to the Wiki? Go ahead and help yourself

[Jake]

Not a bad Idea, we have done a few lists over the last few months, can throw them onto the Wiki (of course, the timescales are a little exaggerated in places....never harms to let them think a task will take longer than it actually will )

I will continue looking for this "official" timescale thing that I saw. It was something by Becta, or Ofsted , or someone official like that, so fairly useful for making a point to the SMT

[alan-d]

I found that listing all the tasks you do and are responsible for is a real eye opener to the non IT specialist.

Start with the routine tasks, then add the tasks you called called out to do, then the additional tasks etc.

When you have a complete list - you'll probably surprise yourself too, add times to each item.

I did a similar thing and asked for an extra technician and they gave me 2.

Oh and don't forget to allow time for staff training.

[Jake]

Yeah, thats essentially what we have done for the last few months.

We have offered lists before, with timeframes included. So far our words have not granted us another tech. Could just be that the head believes we are making things out to be overcomplicated just so we can get a new buddy

[alan-d]

Have you pointed out the backlog and what the implications are as far as cost to the school, non-availability of resources.

Also add the fact that routine tasks such as Audits, Liaisons, Planning, training of staff & technicians and other routine network/administrative tasks have taken a ‘back seat’ in order to reduce response times and enable the full use of the network by users.

As long as you remain professional about it and keep badgering with evidence you have a chance. Also try and get some teaching staff that use IT to help you with your case.

Good Luck

[Jake]

Indeed we have, we actually made some headway back in Oct/nov when the head agreed to have a temp tech for a while. However that only lasted for 4 weeks, and throughout the period the head repeatedly asked "Can I let him go yet" and at one point "how much longer do I have to keep paying for him"

To be fair to the staff here, its something that seems to lie with the head, all of the staff and indeed SMT think we should have additional hands, but not the Head.

Still, the fact that we had the temp for a while bodes well, and as you correctly say, as long as we remain professional and present good evidence its only a matter of time.