Shadow Operations As A Good Practice

Shadow operations, also known as "parallel testing" or "shadow running," is a risk mitigation strategy that involves running a new system in parallel with the existing system without actually controlling the production environment. This allows organizations to test the new system thoroughly and identify any potential issues before fully switching over.

Benefits of Shadow Operations:

1. Reduced Disruption: Shadow operations minimize the disruption to the production environment, as the new system is not actively controlling the grid. This allows operators to continue managing the grid using the familiar legacy system while gaining experience with the new system in a safe and controlled environment.
2. Thorough Testing: Shadow operations provide a comprehensive testing platform where operators can test the new system's functionality, performance, and compatibility with existing infrastructure and processes. This allows for early identification of bugs, glitches, or compatibility issues that could disrupt operations if the new system were deployed directly.
3. Training and Familiarity: Shadow operations provide a valuable training opportunity for operators to familiarize themselves with the new system's interface, features, and procedures. This hands-on experience helps ensure a smoother transition when the new system takes over full control.
4. Risk Mitigation: By identifying and addressing potential issues early on, shadow operations significantly reduce the risk of disruptions, outages, or safety hazards during the actual cutover to the new system.

Implementation of Shadow Operations:

1. Data Synchronization: Replicate the current state of the grid and other relevant data onto the new system. This ensures that the new system is operating with accurate and up-to-date information.
2. System Configuration: Configure the new system to mirror the existing system's settings, parameters, and operational procedures. This consistency minimizes the need for drastic changes during the cutover phase.
3. Parallel Operation: Run the new system in parallel with the existing system, allowing operators to observe its behavior and performance without affecting the actual grid operations. Monitor key metrics and performance indicators to identify any discrepancies or anomalies.
4. Issue Resolution: Promptly address any issues or discrepancies identified during shadow operations. This may involve modifying configurations, updating software, or addressing compatibility issues.
5. Cutover Planning: Once the new system has demonstrated stable and reliable operation, develop a comprehensive cutover plan that outlines the steps for transitioning from parallel operation to full control.

Considerations for Shadow Operations:

1. Data Sensitivity: Ensure that sensitive data is protected and securely handled during shadow operations. Implement appropriate access controls and data security measures to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.
2. Change Management: Carefully manage changes to the new system during shadow operations. Minimize changes to avoid introducing new issues or disrupting the testing process.
3. Performance Optimization: Monitor the new system's performance during shadow operations and identify any performance bottlenecks or resource constraints. Address these issues before cutover to ensure optimal performance in the production environment.
4. Communication and Buy-in: Maintain open communication with all stakeholders involved in the transition to the new system. Address concerns, provide regular updates, and obtain buy-in from operators and management to ensure a smooth cutover process.

The concept of "Shadow Operations" or "Parallel Testing" in the context of implementing new systems, such as SCADA in electrical power utilities, is a widely recognized best practice in the field of system implementation and change management. However, it's important to note that this practice, while commonly adopted, may not be explicitly detailed in a single, specific standard or guideline document. Instead, it is a part of broader best practices and methodologies found in various IT and operational technology (OT) frameworks.

Key references and frameworks where similar concepts are discussed include:

1. ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library): ITIL provides a comprehensive set of best practices for IT service management (ITSM), which includes aspects of change management and new system implementation.

2. ISO/IEC 27001: This standard for information security management systems (ISMS) includes principles that can be applied to the secure implementation of new systems, although it doesn't specifically mention shadow operations.

3. Project Management Institute (PMI): PMI's body of knowledge, including the PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge), offers guidelines on project management, which can be applicable in planning and executing system transitions.

4. COBIT (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies): This framework for IT management and governance provides a comprehensive approach to managing and governing enterprise IT environments, which can be relevant for system implementation projects.

The Timing or Milestone for Conducting Shadow Operations:

• After System Development and Initial Testing: Shadow operations typically occur after the new system has been developed and has undergone initial testing (including unit testing, integration testing, etc.) to ensure basic functionality.
• Before Full Deployment or Cutover: This phase is crucially positioned before the full deployment or cutover to the new system. It's a final, real-world test to ensure everything works as expected in an operational environment.
• During User Training and Acceptance Testing: It often coincides with user training phases and can be part of the broader User Acceptance Testing (UAT) process.

The exact timing can vary based on the project's complexity, the criticality of the system being replaced, and the organization's specific change management processes. The key is to schedule shadow operations at a point where the system is stable enough for testing but early enough to allow for any necessary adjustments before full deployment.