Best Practices:
Network Economics Practice

II. Network Cost Assessment and Cost-Optimized Network Design

Many corporations have grown either organic and/or through M&A activity. Either way there is a need to rationalize the network, whether it is a data center consolidation, or an analysis of multiple wide area network links. The rationalization process will result in a comprehensive set of recommendations and a blueprint to maximize performance, reduce operational expense, minimize inefficient capital spending, and improve the quality of service to the business units. The first critical step in the process is the discovery phase.

In the discovery phase SoftNet will work with the client to collect and synthesize the information required to effectively and accurately detail the tasks and resources required to complete the main phases of the engagement:

• Comprehensive Enterprise Network Assessment

• Comprehensive Enterprise Management Assessment

• Network Cost Assessment

• Cost Optimized Network Design

The primary deliverable associated with the discovery phase is a detailed scope and project plan document that defines precisely what will be required to conduct a comprehensive network infrastructure and management assessment, including personnel and technical resources, and will describe a detailed project methodology for conducting the assessment.

The ultimate goal of this SoftNet service is to develop and implement a cost-optimized network design from the standpoint of ease of management and reduced operating expenditure, with a minimum of capital expenditure.

SoftNet Networking Technology's initial network assessment provides our client with an evaluation of the overall health of the network against industry best practices. SoftNet will examine the strengths and deficiencies of the overall architecture, design, and integration vis-à-vis your business strategy.
SoftNet Technology Corp. will provide our client with a structured approach, ensuring consistent methodology and an understanding of the firm's business requirements. All findings, recommendations, and architectural issues will be documented and provided to the client with specific recommendations for targeted network design, alternate vendor and product capabilities, staffing issues, and the integration of these recommendations within the client's operation.

Return on Invested Capital Analysis

Post-assessment and discovery steps

Business Continuity Planning