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ty ler <br /> result of analyzing data. There are a significant number of times when the data being analyzed <br /> does not correspond with the information that the Client views on the screen in their current <br /> application. Providing staff members that have an in depth knowledge of the Client's current <br /> application is a key element of a successful conversion. <br /> Part of the development process will be testing the program with the data provided in the first <br /> extraction. This testing will take place at Tyler Technology's facilities. Any potential problem areas <br /> will be communicated to the Client. <br /> Conversion Assistance <br /> As part of the contract, a Tyler Technology's trainer will be at the Client location during the actual <br /> conversion. The trainer will provide conversion assistance in the areas of preliminary setup, <br /> conversion program execution and data validation. Even though the primary focus of the trainer <br /> is a successful completion of the conversion process, the trainer will be providing a limited amount <br /> of training in certain areas. In a majority of cases, the trainer responsible for the conversion <br /> assistance will also be responsible for the training that will occur either before or after the <br /> conversion. <br /> It is important to note that the trainer will not be the programmer responsible for the creating or <br /> modifying conversion program. The trainer will be responsible for conveying to the programmer <br /> discovery of Client specific information before the final conversion and any mistakes found after the <br /> conversion. The Client will need to facilitate the trainer by providing a comfortable place to work, <br /> access to facilities before and after normal work hours and telephone communications. <br /> Data Validation <br /> The final step in the conversion process is the data validation. Much attention will be given to data <br /> integrity during the testing phase by the program developers. The conversion assistant will also <br /> spend time testing the integrity of the information. Balances and the output of processes will be <br /> tested after the conversion. A visual inspection of different modules will be performed by choosing <br /> different records on a random base. But Data validation is ultimately the responsibility of the <br /> Client. <br /> Conclusion <br /> After over 20 years and several hundred conversion experiences, Tyler Technologies has <br /> determined that there are several key factors in a successful conversion. The Client needs to have <br /> a realistic expectation of what is going to happen. The Client must understand that there are no <br /> pleasant conversions; therefore a successful conversion is one that provides the least amount of <br /> displacement and discomfort. More than likely, the Client will have to change their schedules and <br /> prepare for a heavier work load during the conversion. The Client has to realize that the data on <br /> the system being converted is exactly how the data will be on the new system. The conversion <br /> process does not clean up or correct any information during the conversion process. The old adage <br /> "garbage in, garbage out" is very relevant during the conversion process. One example would be a <br /> general ledger conversion where the current system's ledger is out of balance. After the <br /> conversion, the INCODE general ledger will be out of balance. Conversions maybe somewhat <br /> mystical but the process is not magical. And finally, to have a successful conversion, there must be <br /> a team approach by all those involved. <br /> Understanding the Conversion Process 4 of 4 <br />