In Part 1 of this post we discussed the steps that lead up to initiation of the actual procurement process–with the ultimate goal of Engineering, IT and the Vendor collaborating to ensure that the client makes the best possible HPC technology purchase decisions. This post will detail 7 recommended steps that cover the start of the actual procurement through to post-sale:
- Start the Procurement Process: Engineering, in particular, should be working very closely with the vendor during the procurement process—which can often be lengthy and involve industry-wide supply chain issues. A good vendor will be able to eliminate or minimize delays.
- Test Applications: Once the HPC cluster is built and before shipment, work with the vendor to test applications and jobs. Training in how to use the new cluster is often conducted at this time also.
- Deploy the Technology: Engineering and IT will need to decide if they have the resources to deploy the technology with internal resources of if they should bring in the vendor to unbox the technology and get it up and running as soon as possible.
- Provide Training and Documentation: Work with the vendor to collaborate on any additional training programs for engineering staff and require the vendor to provide documentation to ensure engineering can effectively use the new technology.
- Make Provisions for Ongoing Support and Maintenance: In collaboration with the vendor, establish procedures for ongoing support and maintenance.
- Monitor Performance: Continuously monitor the performance of the technology and its impact on engineering processes. Collaborate with the vendor on making adjustments or optimizations as needed.
- Maintain Close Contact with the Vendor: A great high performance technology vendor will welcome opportunities for support and make the process as simple as possible. One of the perks of working with a smaller technology provider is the likelihood the same person that built the equipment will be available for continuing support.
To instill confidence in purchase decisions, Nor-Tech offers no-cost, no obligation demos of an expansive array of leading-edge, proven and even legacy HPC-related hardware and software. Scheduling a demo is an excellent start to the buying process and a great way to build trust in Nor-Tech.
Why Nor-Tech is the best choice for your business
Now starting our 25th year, we have established ourselves as one of leading providers of quality HPC solutions. Our servers are backed by an expert team that is available to provide support and assistance ensuring that your business always has access to the resources it needs. Contact us for more information or a quick quote: 952-808-1000; engineering@nor-tech.com/ or click on the Contact tab at https://www.nor-tech.com/contact-2018/
About Nor-Tech
Nor-Tech is on CRN’s list of the top 40 Data Center Infrastructure Providers along with IBM, Oracle, Dell, and Supermicro and is also a member of Hyperion Research’s prestigious HPC Technical Computing Advisory Panel. The company is a complete high performance computer solution provider for 2015 and 2017 Nobel Physics Award-contending/winning projects. Nor-Tech engineers average 20+ years of experience. This strong industry reputation and deep partner relationships also enable the company to be a leading supplier of cost-effective Lenovo desktops, laptops, tablets and Chromebooks to schools and enterprises. All of Nor-Tech’s high-performance technology is developed by Nor-Tech in Minnesota and supported by Nor-Tech around the world. The company is headquartered in Burnsville, Minn. just outside of Minneapolis. Nor-Tech holds the following contracts: Minnesota State IT, GSA, University of Wisconsin System, and NASA SEWP V. To contact Nor-Tech call 952-808-1000/toll free: 877-808-1010 or visit https://www.nor-tech.com.
