Answers on Network Configuration Management

Every one is looking for answers on network configuration management! The bad news is that there is not one solution for all the ills you experience in managing your network. Two of the questions that are often asked are: Do I have to restructure my business? And, are processes enough?

Both these questions can only be answered by analyzing the current business capability, analyzing the future business need then identifying which option is most suited to them. Typically this is called a Feasibility study! What I can tell you is that it can be very prudent to set up a Central Configuration, Change and Release Management Functional area.

Answers on Network Configuration Management – the Central Function

A central Change, Configuration, and Release Management function will enable some organizations to implement control more efficiently and effectively. A central function may be responsible for managing Changes to hardware, software, and all items of documentation that are relevant to the running, support and maintenance of live systems.

Answers on Network Configuration Management – How long should it take?

The planning process for setting up an appropriate function could take anything from three to six months, from inception to the first phase of implementation. This period could be considerably longer if finance is not readily available or there are long lead times.

Experience has shown that it takes at least one month for staff in each area to complete training to the point where they can be effective.

The support processes should not be implemented until organizational staff are fully trained. If they try to take on control activities too soon, they may lose the cooperation of the other parts of the organization by being perceived as a 'bottleneck'.