News: Consulting for Small Business

Small Business Network Installation Issues

Experienced consultants improve the process

by Keith Wheeler

3/29/2006

Computer networks can seem very simple when drawn on the back of a napkin. They can also seem pretty straightforward according to the hardware salesperson or the software company’s website. However, the reality is that there are many, many variables to be considered in the successful installation of a computer network in the small business environment. An experienced, professional consultant (read Responsive consultant) can make the process much simpler for everyone in the small business client’s office. Over the course of the last fifteen years, the difficulty in connecting computers and sharing data has been considerably reduced. At the same time, the expectations regarding features and performance have steadily increased. A successful network installation starts with a clear understanding of the technology and data needs of the small business. Since each business is different, the purpose of the computers and the software to be installed on them needs careful review prior to network installation. For instance, if email and fax are critical functions for a company with remote access workers, a network operating system with those integrated features should be considered. It isn’t uncommon for the announced feature set of a computer software system to fall slightly short of the purchaser’s understanding. In other words, sometimes software doesn’t work they way it is expected to once it’s installed in the real world. Actual experience with the most popular networking software and office applications is central to keeping expectations in line with reality. Working with an understanding of the company’s needs, the details which create the small business network begin to come into focus. There are many areas which require careful consideration such as: desktop computer hardware, desktop computer operating systems, shared application requirements, storage needs, backup strategies and tactics, security, virus protection, power conditioning and protection, internet access, email implementation, user competence, and training. Of course, since this is being prepared for a small business, all of these issues must face the budget issue. Network installation is a big step for a small business. Planning and implementation by a small business computer consultant, such as one from Responsive Network Services LLC, make for a more efficient project with less disruption to the small business client. Please contact a small business computer consultant from either our Chicago or Oswego, Illinois office.