A
network should be seen as more than just a common place to share
files. From conception, Networks were purposed to simplify daily
business tasks and the sharing of information. It is a platform
which properly married to business applications, facilitates the
merger of various business tasks into one common work-space. Tighter
system and application integration will simply equate to more
efficient business processes. A prime example would be the "universal
In-box". It's concept is to migrate various methods of communication
into one interface including e-mail, calendaring, contact management,
faxing services, notifications, task management, resources management
and in some cases document management. The underlying technology
while keeping things simple for the user, tends to be complex.
Improperly modelled networks or poorly integrated applications
will complicate business processes not simplify them, rendering
investments wasted.
Proper integration not only means tying your applications and
systems together, but also the systems and applications you choose
should be configurable to your business model. A successful integration
is reliant on a few key steps:
- Know
your business model and identify workflow processes.
- Identify
the needs of your business model.
- Identify
and evaluate available systems and software that will streamline
these processes.
- If
necessary, evaluate potential custom developments to fill specific
needs.
- Ensure
that chosen systems and applications provide seamless functional
integration.
If
a network deployment is in your future or you need to evaluate
your current systems to improve integration and functionality,
call us. We have the experience and expertise at both the business
and technical levels to ensure your goals are met.
