Rolling out a modern network backbone can cost several hundred thousand Rands. This network usually provides a non-redundant service to the various computers and devices on the network. As such, the deployment of such a network has a direct impact on the stability and speed of the communications throughout a site. The larger the site grows, the more significant the impact.

 

Company budgets in modern times usually mean that there is pressure to rollout a network subsystem based on costs rather than needs. In the absence of data to the contrary, a short term saving in capital budgets is tangible. Compared against a vague benchmark of “a working network” decision makers are usually faced with a difficult choice. This gamble can be reduced with some concrete analysis. Instead of just deploying the same network as previous incumbents, some degree of planning should be undertaken.

 

What we offer is an analysis of your needs based on the following:

 

1	Current network size, performance and structure.
2	Current shortcomings and/or benefits.
3	Forecasting future needs based on planned growth or growth potential.
4	Future services based on current technology and usage trends.
5	Performance requirements in terms of GOS and QOS during peak times.
6	For example if you decide that you need to restore systems using automated workstation deployment tools, but find that this exceeds the capacity of the current systems, thereby preventing other users from working.
7	Is the network able to operate if a single switch fails, or a fibre backbone is lost?
8	Quantification of losses should always consider the costs of downtime in terms of lost productivity, failed deliverables as well as the cost of not rolling out a necessary service due to overloading the network.
9	Management flexibility of the network. For example if you cannot trace rogue systems due to poorly rolled out systems, then you are unable to prevent abuse.
10	For example would you be able to trace a system with a torrent service in an office of hundreds of staff members.