Preparing the Proposal

Designing and Supporting Computer Networks Chapter 9

ITE I Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 1
 Objectives
Prepare the proposal using the information developed
so far
Plan for the Internetwork implementation, including
timelines, downtime requirements and installation
requirements
Identify software and hardware support contract
options
Present the network proposal, including
implementation schedule and cost summary

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 2
Begin Preparing the Proposal using the
Information Developed so Far
Organize the existing information
Determine the format requested in the RFP
If no format is specified, prepare a layout and design for
the proposal

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 3
Begin Preparing the Proposal using the
Information Developed so Far
Integrate the existing information:
Executive summary
Network requirements and current network
environment
Physical and logical design

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 4
Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
Create an Implementation plan
Create a cost proposal
Include customer expectations and success criteria
Obtain customer approval before beginning
implementation

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
Determine the best installation method:
New installation
Phased installation
Complete replacement

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 6
Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
Estimate timelines and resources

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
Create an installation schedule based on maintenance
windows and downtime allowances

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Plan for the Installation
Prepare the cost estimate by creating a Bill of Material:
Order new and replacement parts
Identify additional devices
Identify upgrades to existing devices
Identify software requirements

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 9
Plan for the Installation
Describe the services and support provided by the
SMARTnet agreement:
Software support
Cisco TAC
Registered access to Cisco.com
Advanced replacement of hardware parts.

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Plan for the Installation
Describe the main benefits/entitlements of Cisco
technical services and support

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Plan for the Installation
Identify the benefits of Cisco software support

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Present the Network Proposal to the
Customer
Complete the proposal and develop a proposal
presentation

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Present the Network Proposal to the
Customer
Present the network design proposal to the class and
gain sign-off from the instructor:
Include slides or other visual aids
Incorporate presentation best practices

ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 14
 Summary
Implementing a network design includes installing
hardware, configuring systems, testing the network,
and launching the network into production.
Maintenance windows and planned downtime need to
be included in the installation timeline.
The SMARTnet program offers the customer service
enhancements and maintenance support resources.
Proper preparation before the presentation can mean
the difference between customer sign-off and losing the
project.

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ITE 1 Chapter 6 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 16