Basic Guide to Network Infrastructure

Network Implementation

This checklist will help you implement a networking project.

1. Research & Analyse

Set targets

• Set goals for your network. If you already have a system in place, look at how it performs against your needs and what the shortfalls are.
• Work out who will need to access the network, where they are based (on site or remote access) and how many printers, scanners and computers need to be connected.
• Think about how your network will need to expand in the future - try to make some rough estimations.

Cost-benefit analysis

• If you already have a network, balance the costs of upgrading it with the cost of investing in a new system.
• Weigh the costs of implementation (purchase, installation, support, maintenance and training) against the potential benefits (replacing manual and paper-based processes, reducing hardware costs by sharing facilities, and capital allowances).

2. Consult

Professional advice

If you need professional help on the right networking solution for you, contact your Business Link adviser (or equivalent in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland) for help on how to:

• Outline your requirements
• Establish your budget
• Scope the project
• Implement your new network and related software
• Roll out training.

3. Plan & test

Evaluate options

• Think about your business and what your networking requirements are to help figure out what type of solution would suit you. Would you prefer a basic, cheap option (eg LAN) that connects a handful of computers? Or would you need dedicated leased lines to connect offices at different locations?
• Whichever option you choose, you will also need to think about issues such as security and data storage. Consider options such as anti-virus software, firewalls, encryption etc.

Plan the rollout phase

• What type of software will need to be installed? Do you have the technical expertise to install the technology yourself? Who can deal with teething problems and ongoing maintenance? Find out whether you will need software licenses too.
• Think about how to rollout the new system to staff. Set up access levels, usernames and passwords. Plan any training necessary and factor in time for staff to adjust to the new system.
• Install and test an operating system, cabling and test outlets.

4. Act

• Roll out any necessary training.
• Encourage staff involvement and feedback, this will help smooth implementation, as staff buy-in can make or break a technology project.
• Allocate resources for promoting its use among internal and external target communities that may need some initial encouragement.

5. Evaluate

• Monitor and review the impact on your business and against your objectives.
• Get feedback from staff, customers and suppliers on the changes.
• Evaluate the impact after six months and one year. Have you achieved your objectives? Establish how you could improve things further.