Need some network advice

[Cat White]

When it's time to update you network structure, how do you get started and proceed?  Some options:

1) Hire a consultant who specializes in networks to design the new system and recommend equipment

2) Contact a vendor who will design the network and sell you all the equipment

3) Make all design decisions in-house and bid out the equipment

Or something different?

Of course I have opinions about the best way to do this, but I could be wrong. 

Thanks,
Cat

[Demetri Orlando]

HI Cat,

great question! I'd suggest tapping into the power of this network and the ISED list by posting some of your info and seeing what people suggest. I think you'd want to list some key info about your current infrastructure and your goals for a refreshed infrastructure. {e.g. how many users, what type of equipment they use, what applications they use, platform, tech staffing, expectations, facilities info, etc.} You'll likely get some good unbiased advice. Then I'd suggest creating a formal document requesting vendors to propose solutions for your needs (circulate it to 3-5 vendors) and take advantage of sales teams' expertise to probe into the details of what you are wanting to accomplish.

[Bruce Sarte]

If you have the knowledge and skillset in house, that is the best way to go.  To have the technical knowledge intimately coupled with knowledge of your environment and why something may or may not work is invaluable.  If you do not have a network engineer on staff, I'd recommend bringing in a consultant who works with educational institutions.  Call local schools and ask them who they use and if they are happy.  Most consultant will happily bid on the project before hand and make suggestions on brands and types of equipment.  Do some research on schools your size and in your student's target range.  (IE: if you have 200 boarding students, this would be very different then if you are a day school).

 

In the end, the worst thing you can do is entrust your school's network with someone who has never done a network in a school before.  Its not the same as wiring up some small office and the classroom challenges of the future make network stability and agility more important than ever before.

[Jonathan Schmid]

Unless you are very confident and have experience designing networks, getting outside expertise is the way to go. The network is the backbone of technology at a school, and it's important to know that it is a reliable, solid system. Your school network should not be someone's learning experience! Everyone's opinion will be biased, but a consultant not tied to a specific brand will most likely keep your best interests in mind when designing the network and suggesting equipment.