Network Documentation

Network documentation is a critical component of network management. Creating and keeping the documentation of your network current is one of the most important tasks to do to keep your business efficient. Whether your network is large or small, managing it involves a vast number of hardware connections, configuration parameters, and site procedures. It is impossible to remember every specific network configuration detail and even if miscellaneous notes work for you, co-workers or staff might not be able to decipher them. Troubleshooting most network problems involves a systematic approach that requires a thorough diagnosis of a network's characteristics, capabilities, and history. Properly documented details that accurately describe the structure and context of a network serve as quick reference for all staff, making the task of managing the network more productive.

Benefits of Network Documentation

• Faster troubleshooting - Good documentation reduces the need to research solutions to the same problem each time the problem arises. A visual diagram can help identify and pinpoint potential problem areas in a more timely manner.
  

• Better Knowledge Transfer - Prevents the loss of important network information when IT employees leave the organization, making the transition period less painful.
  

• Easier task sharing - Network administrators can more quickly and effectively delegate network responsibilities because important information is available in written form.
  

• Improved network design - A current network diagram that provides a complete "as-is" design is a necessary first step in moving toward a "should-be" design that better meets your growing business needs.
  

• What is the GREATEST benefit to you? - Complete up-to-date network documentation will save you and your staff TIME that allows you and your staff to concentrate on your business rather than having to continually re-create information about your IT support structure.
  

Contact us today to learn what Portal Systems can do for you to better document your network so you can better do your work.

For more information on documenting your network please visit Portal Systems' Network Documentation site:

For examples of network diagrams (good and bad) visit Rate My Network Diagram .com