|
Identify nature of problem: |
{ Platform, Database, Application Error, Integrations, Performance } |
|
Select the right tool for diagnosis: |
{ Service logs, Profiler, Timing Trace, Engine Trace |
|
Collect as much information : |
{ Environment, Versions, Patch Level, Service Packs } |
|
Frequency of the problem: |
{ Intermittent, Only with certain users } |
|
Technology used: |
{ All Browsers, Only on certain browsers, Firewalls, Antivirus, Windows version, Database version } |
|
Setup: |
{ Happens in all folders, Only happens in certain folders } |
|
Type of problem: |
{ Happens on every transaction, Happens only on certain transactions } |
|
Installation: |
{ Cloud, On Premise, Single-tier, multi-tier, clustered, Replications } |
|
Add-ons: |
{ Vanilla, Third party modules, Entry points customizations } |
|
Solution tools: |
{ Patch finder, Knowledge base, Online-help, Forums } |
Apply a methodology to problem solving, keep an open mind in most cases the problem is not what it is saying on the screen.
Application errors may require just dictionary validations, copying libraries from the reference folder and checking if the correct setup was done.
Database errors mostly require revalidation of tables from application, memory settings, re-indexing, routine DBA tasks like managing transaction logs and deadlocks.
Platform errors are usually caused by components not aligned as per patch level, network packet losses, security and firewall rules, operating system settings and registry settings.
Performance issues are usually linked to recommended minimum system requirements, correct power settings, RAID, CPU and memory management. Statistical triggers running in real time instead of batch mode as well as unnecessary debug checks on workflows in production environments.
Integration errors are linked to developers' oversight on best practices steps in problem definition, error handling mechanism, data consistency and integrity checks as well as system setup requirements.
Have fun solving problems; cause elimination, early detection and quick solutions is the ultimate goal.