Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
A pilot site is an actual “live” location that serves as a test site before the solution is de-
ployed to all locations in an enterprise. A pilot allows real-world problems to be discov-
ered before deploying a network design solution to the rest of the internetwork.
With both a prototype and a pilot, successful testing leads to proving the design and mov-
ing forward with implementation. A failure leads to correcting the design and repeating
the tests to correct any deficiencies.
Design Document
The design document describes the business requirements; old network architecture; net-
work requirements; and design, plan, and configuration information for the new network.
The network architects and analysts use it to document the new network changes, and it
serves as documentation for the enterprise. The design document should include the fol-
lowing sections:
Introduction
describes the project's purpose and the reasons for the network design.
■
Design Requirements
lists the organization's requirements, constraints, and goals.
■
Existing Network Infrastructure
includes logical (Layer 3) topology diagrams; phys-
ical topology diagrams; audit results; network health analysis; routing protocols; a
summary of applications; a list of network routers, switches, and other devices; con-
figurations; and a description of issues.
■
Design
contains the specific design information, such as logical and physical topol-
ogy, IP addressing, routing protocols, and security configurations.
■
Proof of Concept
results from live pilot or prototype testing.
■
Implementation Plan
includes the detailed steps for the network staff to implement
the new installation and changes.
■
Appendixes
contains list of exiting network devices, configurations, and additional
information used in the design of the network.
■
Ta ble 1-1 1 summarizes the contents of the design document.
Ta b l e 1-1 1
Sections of the Design Document
Section
Description
Introduction
Purpose and goals of the network design
Design Requirements
Organization requirements and constraints
Existing Network Infra-
structure
Contains diagrams, hardware and software versions, and existing
configurations
Design
New logical topology, design, and IP addressing
Proof of Concept
Results from pilot or prototype
Implementation Plan
Detailed steps for implementation
Appendixes
Supporting information
