1B PROCESSOR DEPLOYMENT - LEADING THE WAY TO FLAWLESS EXECUTION

Deploying the 1B processor involved installing and retrofitting it in a live, fully operational 4ESS(TM) switch. The customer requirements f or deploying the 1B processor were simple, clear, and stark: ''flawles s execution with no interruption to service.'' To accomplish this, spe cial bus switches were designed to allow peripheral units to be switch ed from the 1A to the 1B processor as part of the retrofit. The aggres sive schedule called for installing the 1B processor in 134 AT&T switc hes in only 16 months. This paper describes the unique customer-suppli er partnering approach used to meet the customer requirement of ''flaw less execution.'' It also discusses the major leadership-based procedu res used to improve processes and eliminate risks.