Business Goals Checklist
You can use the following checklist to determine if you have addressed your client's business-oriented objectives and concerns. If you can't gather every piece of data mentioned in the checklist, make sure you document what is missing in case it becomes critical, but don't stall the project to gather every last detail. This book teaches an ideal network design methodology that you should try to follow, but if real-world constraints, such as uncooperative network design customers, budget cuts, and time constraints, hamper your ability to follow the methodology precisely, just follow it as much as you can. In general, the methodology still works even if some data is missing after you do your analysis.
I have researched the customer's industry and competition.
I understand the customer's corporate structure.
I have compiled a list of the customer's business goals, starting with one overall business goal that explains the primary purpose of the network design project.
The customer has identified any mission-critical operations.
I understand the customer's criteria for success and the ramifications of failure.
I understand the scope of the network design project.
I have identified the customer's network applications (using the Network Applications chart).
The customer has explained policies regarding approved vendors, protocols, or platforms.
The customer has explained any policies regarding open versus proprietary solutions.
The customer has explained any policies regarding distributed authority for network design and implementation.
I know the budget for this project.
I know the schedule for this project, including the final due date and major milestones, and I believe it is practical.
I have a good understanding of the technical expertise of my clients and any relevant internal or external staff.
I have discussed a staff-education plan with the customer.
I am aware of any office politics that might affect the network design.