ICANWK411A
Deploy software to networked computers

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to plan, manage and support the installation of new or upgraded software to networked computers according to vendor and organisation specifications.

Application

This unit applies to those involved in installing, configuring, maintaining and supporting software, such as network administrators and network support staff.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Determine operating system and software and hardware requirements

1.1 Assess client software and licensing requirements, considering compatibility with existing application software and operating system

1.2 Assess hardware requirements

1.3 Analyse requirements against local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and wireless networks within organisational guidelines

1.4 Evaluate client requirements according to organisational guidelines, corporate purchasing procedures and budget

2. Obtain deployment software to automate deployment

2.1 Evaluate deployment software according to client requirements and organisational guidelines

2.2 Contact vendors and obtain technical specifications, including support arrangements and licensing

2.3 Acquire software and licences, according to organisational procedures

2.4 Store software licences and manuals, according to organisational guidelines

3. Automate installation of operating system via network

3.1 Plan and deploy operating system according to appropriate vendor installation procedures with minimal disruption to network and clients

3.2 Configure and test installation to ensure that it meets client needs and vendor specifications

3.3 Install updates and patches

4. Automate installation of software packages via network

4.1 Plan and deploy software packages according to appropriate vendor installation procedures with minimal disruption to network and clients

4.2 Configure and test installation to ensure that it meets client needs and vendor specifications

4.3 Install updates and patches

5. Test and sign off

5.1 Test installed operating system and software for error-free performance, identifying and resolving problems

5.2 Determine and document security and licensing issues

5.3 Obtain client evaluation and feedback, to ensure that client requirements have been met

Required Skills

Required skills

communication skills to liaise with a client to determine functional requirements of network

literacy skills to document client requirements

problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and debug:

deployment issues

configuration issues

research skills to determine most suitable solution for client

technical skills to:

implement LANs

implement various software deployment solutions.

Required knowledge

overview knowledge of:

network protocols and operating systems

organisational contracting procedures and responsibilities

software licensing requirements and documentation

transmission control protocols or internet protocols (TCPs/IPs) and applications

detailed knowledge of:

current industry standards related to software deployment

deployment software configuration

configuration of automated deployment processes

operating system deployment

software package deployment

troubleshooting deployment processes.

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the ability to:

identify client software requirements

plan and deploy automatic installation of operating system and software

configure and test installation, ensuring client needs are met.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

site or prototype where deployment processes may be implemented

live network

software tools to support implementation of deployment processes

technical documentation and installation manuals

organisational guidelines

appropriate learning and assessment support when required.

Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with special needs.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

verbal or written questioning to assess candidate’s knowledge of underpinning knowledge and skills

direct observation of candidate performing the tasks required to successfully implement automated deployment processes

documentation produced in a small project environment that reflects the understanding of client and technical skills required.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, where appropriate.

Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate, and suitable to the communication skill level, language, literacy and numeracy capacity of the candidate and the work being performed.

Indigenous people and other people from a non-English speaking background may need additional support.

In cases where practical assessment is used it should be combined with targeted questioning to assess required knowledge.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Client may include:

external organisations

individuals

internal departments

internal employees.

Hardware may include:

networks

network interface card (NIC)

personal computers

servers

workstations.

Deployment software may include:

Acronis

Altiris

Ghost

remote installation services (RIS) and wireless distribution system (WDS)

Windows Server tools.

Vendors may include:

Adobe

Apple

Citrix

Linux or Unix

Microsoft

Novell

open source.

Operating system may include:

Linux

Mac

Unix

Windows.

Software packages may include:

office applications

utilities.


Sectors

Networking


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement but users should confirm requirements with the relevant federal, state or territory authority.