ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview the key activities in the network analysis and design process. The purpose of requirements identification is to ensure that the network designers have clear definitions and a detailed understanding of the essential network requirements and related network design attributes. Geographical requirements analysis begins with a careful study of the system’s geographical locations and focuses on such issues as topology and transmission media. Hardware analysis is used to define the requirements for the personal computers, workstations, terminals, peripherals, communication interfaces, modems, and other hardware that will be attached to the network. Networks are expensive to develop and to operate. The cost estimating process might include a cost/benefit analysis. Network consultants often develop detailed cost estimates in response to a competitive procurement opportunity. Once the network analysis is completed, the various design decisions must be carefully documented. During the physical documentation and preparation phase, a complete component list is prepared for each node in the network.
