Eightfold launch is the culmination of the deployment project. It is when Eightfold go-live for production use across the organisation.

Success requires meticulous planning and careful execution. Gartner advises creating a detailed plan that minimises last‑minute changes and preserves support continuity to ensure a seamless transition.

Plan the cutover well before the launch date

Well before the launch date, define how the cutover from old processes/systems to Eightfold will occur. Key questions include:

Will there be a phased rollout (e.g., go-live by region or business unit in waves) or a “big bang” global launch? Large companies often favour phased approaches to limit risk and manage change in chunks.

Parallel Run to Validate System Stability

Run Eightfold alongside the legacy ATS for a short period to confirm system reliability before full migration.

For example, Eaton’s team operated both systems concurrently for 2.5 months, ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting hiring. During this phase, recruiters may double-enter data or use both platforms to verify consistency in outcomes.

Define Cut-Off for Legacy System Data

Set a clear cut-off date for new data entry into the legacy system. After this date, all new job requisitions and candidate records should be managed exclusively in Eightfold. Requisitions opened before the cut-off can either continue in the legacy system until filled or be migrated.

Identify and Avoid Blackout Periods

Avoid launching Eightfold during critical business cycles (e.g., retail holiday hiring). Coordinate with IT to prevent overlap with other major system changes or downtimes. This reduces risk and ensures resource availability.

Document the Cutover Plan

Create a detailed runbook with clear ownership and timing.

For Example: On Friday 6PM, disable external careers site posting via old ATS; at 7PM, enable Eightfold-powered careers site; by 10PM, verify external site is live with new jobs feed; on Monday, recruiters start using Eightfold sourcing exclusively.

A well-documented plan ensures accountability and smooth execution.

Freeze Data and Configuration

Impose a freeze on configuration changes and major data loads in the days leading to go-live. This stability window allows final testing of the production-ready system. Conduct a dry run or smoke test with a small group to confirm integration health and system readiness.

Communicate the Launch Clearly

Notify all users well in advance:

“Go-live on [DATE]: Eightfold will be mandatory for XYZ processes.”

On launch day, send a kick-off message with access instructions, support contacts and leadership endorsement. A message from the TA leader can reinforce the platform’s importance and encourage adoption.

Support and Hypercare

Deploy a robust support model for the first 2–4 weeks post-launch:

Staff help desks and on-call support internally and via Eightfold.

Prepare to resolve login issues, minor bugs, and user questions quickly.

Ensure support teams can escalate technical issues to Eightfold promptly.

Track all issues and resolutions to identify patterns and address critical bugs immediately.

Monitor Adoption and Performance

Monitor system usage and integration performance closely:

Confirm applicant data flows correctly.

Track recruiter logins and candidate applications.

Identify gaps in adoption (e.g., recruiters not logging in) and intervene early.

Schedule daily or weekly check-ins with the project team to review metrics and resolve issues.

Conduct a Post-Implementation Review

After hypercare, hold a formal review:

Document successes and challenges.

Note any integration issues that impacted hiring.

Share lessons learned for future rollouts or updates.

Eaton’s experience showed that a well-executed Eightfold Go-live appears seamless to hiring managers and candidates. Gartner also recommends keeping the support model consistent at launch to avoid confusion.

In summary, a successful Eightfold launch hinges on preparation, clear communication, and proactive support.

By managing change in structured phases and mitigating risks early, your team can deploy Eightfold confidently and set the foundation for long-term success.

You May Like the Eightfold Deployment Stages

1. Initial Demo →

The deployment journey starts with an initial demo of Eightfold’s Platform.

2. Proof of Concept →

Once you secure stakeholder buy-in, the next step is a Proof of Concept (PoC).

3. Configuration, Integration and Testing →

After a successful pilot, the project moves into full implementation.

4. Change Management and User Adoption →

This phase covers communication, training, and engagement to drive adoption.

5. Training and Enablement →

Eightfold training and enablement is key for successful deployment.

6. Go Live Planning and Launch →

Eightfold launch is the culmination of the project with go-live across the organisation.