Methodology for the Life Cycle Development of Enterprise Networks

Abstract

The life cycle (planning, analysis, design, installation, and administration) of corporate communication networks imposes complex problems of methodology. It is necessary to take into account not only current, but future applications, communication channels among the various, geographically dispersed sites, available technologies, and the services provided by common carriers and others. Corporate networks are assuming unprecedented strategic importance, making it imperative that realistic and efficient methodologies be applied to ensure designs of adequate scope, and successful implementation. In this paper the methodological elements, the procedures, employed during the life cycle of corporate networks are reviewed. Each of the above-mentioned phases is part of an evolutionary learning spiral of telecommunications within a corporation, and an understanding of this has evolved through research and from information exchanges with several large Mexican and foreign corporations.