New Build Projects & IT NetworksA Network Managers Perspective

Mark ClarkeAdvisor: Technology & Infrastructure, JISC RSC SW Scotland

New Build Projects & Networks

• The Team

– Architect– Clerk of Works– H&S Officer– Project Manager– Project Sponsor– Technical Manager

New Build Projects & Networks

• Clerk of Works

– Independent of contractors– Looks after College interest– Ensures standards of work– Supervises contractors on site– Attends & Informs project

management meetings

New Build Projects & Networks

• Project Manager

– Independent– Manage documentation– Monitor milestones– Construction experience– Not a College manager– Not IT specialist

New Build Projects & Networks

• Project Owner

– College SMT or Vice Principal– Overall budget control– Project management control– Overall Vision long term– Not day-to-day manager– Ensures build meets strategic

requirements

New Build Projects & Networks

• Technical Manager

– Specifies the network– Thorough understanding of

technicalities– Liaise with Clerk of Works– Liaise with Project Manager– Liaise with relevant contractors – Daily Inspections of work done.– Daily ‘chat’ with cable crew

supervisor

New Build Projects & Networks

• The Issues

– Health & Safety– Network Design & Topology– Procurement Management– Active Components– Vertical Fibre– Horizontal UTP– Face Plates & Patch Panels– Server Room– Wiring Closet– Installation– Acceptance Criteria & Testing

New Build Projects & Networks

• Network Design & Topology

– Architects Drawings– Server Rooms– Wiring Closets– Robust failover equipment– WiFi Access Point locations– IP Addressing Scheme– Security Policy ( Firewall config )– VLANS – Telephony over IP?

New Build Projects & Networks

• Procurement Management

– Procurement Frameworks– European Journal– Request for Information (RFI)– Invitation To Tender (ITT)– Selection Criteria

• Cost• Technical Suitability• Cost of Ownership• Future Proof

New Build Projects & Networks

• Active Components

– Does it have to be Cisco?– Competitive vendors– Switch & Port density– VLAN propagation (802.3pQ)– Mixing existing switches with new– Training & Handover program

New Build Projects & Networks

• Vertical Fibre

– Risers– Single Mode (mono mode)– Multi Mode– OTDR Testing– FCPC patch connectors ISP favourite

New Build Projects & Networks

• Horizontal UTP

– Certification of installers– Warranty & TDR test results– LSZH – Containment, Trunking & Conduet– Cable tray above ceiling– Labelling of cables– Patch leads

New Build Projects & Networks

• Face Plates & Patch Panels

– Numbering Scheme– Velcro wrap rather than cable ties– Cable management– “Moves & Changes” after installation– Cat 6 harnessing in panel?

New Build Projects & Networks

• Server & Comms Room

– Overhead cable basket– Raised Floor– Air conditioning ( with UPS )– Fire suppression system– Cabinet accessibility

New Build Projects & Networks

• Wiring Closets

– Resist cramming all into one location– Ventilation may be required– Cat 6 bend radius – Cable management (velcro wrap)– Don’t mix Cat 6 install with old Cat 5

patch cables

New Build Projects & Networks

• Installation

– Visit site regularly– Health & Safety briefing– Be diplomatic & manage

confrontation– Don’t be a meddling dictator– Change management– Cat 6 bend radius etc – Cable management

New Build Projects & Networks

• Acceptance Criteria & Testing

– Cat 5 & 6 Cable certifying – Test sheets– Fibre optic ODTR tests – WiFi coverage survey– Routing Switching & VLAN tests– Agreed with vendor from the start

New Build Projects & Networks

• Conclusion

– Download PDF document– Talk to your RSC ask for their input– Take ownership ASAP– Create new build RSC Forum and share

knowledge/experience– Make sure your new campus has full JANET

service connectivity included in new build budget (fibre etc)

WWW-RSC-SW-SCOTLAND.AC.UK/Technical/Newbuild.htm

m.clark@rsc-sw-scotland.ac.ukMark Clark eAdvisor: Infrastructure