Technical Infrastructure Evaluation Activities


The technical infrastructure evaluation activities do not need to be performed linearly. Figure 2.6 indicates two activities that can be performed concurrently. The list below briefly describes the activities associated with Step 2, Section A, Technical Infrastructure Evaluation.

  1. Assess the existing platform.

    Review the existing platform in terms of hardware, middleware, DBMS, and tools. It is important to evaluate the interdependence of the tools for their various purposes, such as the interdependence between a multidimensional reporting tool and an ad hoc querying tool. In addition, review the existing network architecture. One of the biggest bottlenecks today, especially in organizations with decentralized applications, is the lack of bandwidth coupled with a limited capacity for network growth.

  2. Evaluate and select new products.

    After assessing the existing platforms, identify which types of new hardware, software, or networking components you must acquire. If the existing hardware platform appears to be sufficient, be sure to determine that it will be able to provide the productivity and performance the organization expects from it. Engage business representatives and stakeholders in the decision-making process by including them in peer reviews during the selection process.

  3. Write the technical infrastructure assessment report.

    Compile all findings about the existing platform into a report. Explain the strengths and weaknesses of the current hardware, middleware, DBMS, and tools, and provide a list of missing technical infrastructure components necessary to meet the project requirements.

  4. Expand the current platform .

    Once you have determined which new products need to be acquired , you can begin the process of evaluating, selecting, ordering, installing, and testing them.

Figure 2.6. Technical Infrastructure Evaluation Activities

graphics/02fig06.gif



Business Intelligence Roadmap
Business Intelligence Roadmap: The Complete Project Lifecycle for Decision-Support Applications
ISBN: 0201784203
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 202

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