Re-introducing IMPACT for IBM Systems

 IMPACT:   An interactive method of preparing for and conducting TDAs (Technical & Delivery Assessments) 

Benefits and value:

1) Delivers user-friendly web-based and interactive TDA Checklists.

2) Streamlines the process by only asking pertinent or relevant questions for completion.

3) Allows the Sales and Technical Sales user to invite peers to work on a checklist.

4) Allows the Sales and Technical Sales user to easily attach Configurations, Drawings and other documentation.

5) Allows the Sales andTechnical Sales user to submit a TDA Request to their organization.

6) Provides recommended action items for Quality Practitioners and SMEs.

7) Generates a summary of necessary actions that are needed.

8) Records the completion of a required TDA.

9) Securely stores the completed Checklist and the results of the TDA in the cloud.

IMPACT has been in production for over a year and is available to IBMers and Resellers worldwide. We are nearly completed with the migration of the existing checklists and we will continue to develop and enhance the tool. So far the tool has been a success and well received, but we are not done, as there is so much more that we can do to improve the tool, the process and the experience. So keep your wonderful and thoughtful ideas coming! We really appreciate your feedback!

 Q: How do I access IMPACT?

A:  https://www.ibm.com/tools/impact/ Sign in with your IBMid and password.

Q: Who can access IMPACT? 

A: Any IBMer with a valid IBMid, w3id, and password can create a record and request a TDA.  Any IBM Business Partner with a valid IBMid, password and is listed in their company's IBM Profile in PartnerWorld can create a record and request a TDA.

Q: How do I use the tool? 

A: There are two steps to completing the expert-level TDA.

1) The tool helps you prepare for the expert-level TDA by collecting important data including the completed checklist as input to the review.  Simply sign in and click-on "Create new IBM Systems TDA request".  Enter the name for your checklist and answer the country and BP and/or IBM questions.  Select Pre-sale or Pre-install and then select the Checklist(s) for your opportunity.  You can select more than one checklist but make sure you complete all checklist sub-tabs.  Complete all fields in the follow on screens.  When you are ready for the TDA, complete the TDA Request screen and click on SUBMIT.  Your request will be routed to your company's Solution Assurance contact(s) and you will be contacted by the assigned Quality Practitioner (QP).  Business Partners are responsible for conducting TDAs on their own opportunities.  In some geographies, IBM may provide assistance or offer a billable service for TDA assistance.  Contact your local Channel team for more information.  Note: Once you click on SUBMIT, the record will go into read only status.  If you need the record returned back to DRAFT status, please submit a feedback.

2) The Quality Practitioner conducts the formal TDA with the SME(s) and appropriate attendees and documents the results of the review under the "Review checklists" view.  The tool will also generate a Review Summary document that the Quality Practitioner can circulate.

Q: Where are the "old" Word and Excel versions of the checklists? 

A: The old Word and Excel versions of the checklists have now been migrated into IMPACT and made into the "interactive" checklists online.  The older versions have now been sunset from the website.

Q: Can I save my checklist? 

A: Yes, you can save as a Draft and return to complete at a later time.  Once in the tool, the system will auto save your work but you can also click-on the SAVE button to save your work.  When you return to the tool, click-on "Work on checklists" and select the checklist you need.

Q: Can I download a copy of the checklist? 

A: Yes, click on "Work on checklists" and click-on the pdf icon on the far right hand side of the screen under Actions.  Just remember to return and complete the checklist online and submit your TDA request.  Note: Quality Practitioner's have a Reviewer's pdf version that they can download under the "Review checklists" view.

Q: Can I have a peer also work on my checklist? 

A: Yes, in the Account Information tab, go to the Coauthor Contacts section.  Here you can identify which individual will be granted access to your TDA package. Enter name and email address (at a minimum) and then click-on the "Activate" button.  The individual will then receive an email invitation and link to work on the package.  To enter another individual, click-on the "plus" symbol.  To revoke coauthor access, click on the "deactivate" button for a specific individual.  Note: The coauthor will only have edit capability until the record is Submitted and then the record will be in read only status.

Q: Can I use IMPACT on my mobile device? 

A: Future releases will provide optimization for mobile devices.  There are know issues with cell phones, but it works well on tablets.

Q: I am an IBM Quality Practitioner and I need a higher level of access (QP access).  Who do I contact? 

A: Submit your access request by clicking on the Help/Feedback button or clicking on the Feedback button on the right-hand side of the screen.  Note: Manager approval will be obtained.  Business Partners will identify their Quality Practitioner in their TDA Request and access is granted based on the valid email address provided.

Q: Is there a User Guide? 

A: Yes, the User Guide is available in IMPACT under Help/Education.

Q: What if I need help? 

A: You can submit a question or provide feedback by clicking on the Feedback button.

    Need information on Solution Assurance? Click here --> IBM:      Education      PartnerWorld:    Education 

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  The original announcement of IMPACT from April 30, 2018 has been removed.