Getronics` NetWorkPlace initiative takes sting out of support

As networking technologies overlap and vendor mergers reshape the industry, the availability of consistent, one-stop support becomes a crucial issue for users, according to Norman Royds, Getronics`s divisional director of network integration.

Getronics has combined its network support operations in its comprehensive NetWork Place offering to fulfil this need. Four of the 19 services of NetWorkPlace combine in a network monitoring and maintenance package geared to ensuring uninterrupted network uptime.

A key component in NetWorkPlace is the network management module, which serves as the "eyes and ears" on the network for the network manager. Probes are plugged in throughout the network to monitor performance, generating realtime reports on the status of the network, including all devices and lines.

"With Getronicsproviding network monitoring services for a range of clients at a central point, security is obviously top priority for users," says Royds. "To ensure that client networks remain impenetrable, Getronics operates high security firewalled and, if necessary, encrypted links to clients."

If network manager identifies a fault, the call reporting component of NetWorkPlacecomes into effect and a call is logged immediately and automatically, setting procedures in motion for resolution of that problem.

As well as monitoring realtime network status, NetWorkPlace also tracks network health, alerting clients to possible glitches such as whether links are overloaded, storage devices are set to exceed capacity, or when peaks can be expected. These statistics are delivered to clients on a regular basis, ranging from half-hourly to monthly.

Another component in NetWorkPlace is asset management, enabling users to determine in advance the impact of adding extra devices or elements to a network. "Getronics will conduct electronic asset discover, then assess the extent to which network capacity is being utilised," says Royds.

Finally, the helpdesk component of NetWorkPlace is aimed primarily at desktop devices connected to networks, dialling in if users required software assistance at desktop level.

The NetWorkPlace infrastructure in place at Getronics`s South African operation is replicated throughout the organisation`s 41 subsidiaries worldwide, enabling the local concern to offer top level support around the clock, seven days a week - monitoring procedures are simply passed across the three major time zones.

In this manner, Getronics South Africa shares responsibility for monitoring organisations in Tanzania, Ghana, Zambia, UK, South America, Holland and Australia.

"For individual organisations, the cost of deploying a toolset as comprehensive as what Getronics has in place would be prohibitive. In addition, tools would be badly underutilised in the average corporate network.

"NetWorkPlace is structured to capitalise on economies of scale, offering users a suite of top quality network monitoring, management and support tools at a reasonable price. Getronics has invested heavily in these tools, as well as the accompanying security measures, to ensure bottom line benefit for users," concludes Royds.