There is an unwritten principle that says that no matter how much you plan for a system implementation, something unanticipated will almost always happen, often at the worst possible moment. Interview several analysts in local organizations who have expertise in implementing systems. Ask them about their experiences, what their worst horror story was, and what they learned from it. Supplement these interviews with research on contingency implementation planning.

Then use your anecdotal information and research to put together a set of guidelines on planning for and handling the unexpected during system implementation.