A good network architecture isn’t just about technical requirements; it’s about aligning with business objectives. The fundamental question architects must answer is: “What are you architecting the network for?” This is crucial and often overlooked by many Managed Service Providers (MSPs), who prioritize quick delivery over quality. As a result, when the network grows and multiple MSPs are involved, it can become unmanageable.
Effective requirement gathering is essential from an architectural perspective. The network must align with business needs and offer a better Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). A straightforward design principle, where “salt is salt and pepper is pepper,” should guide this process. Architects should focus on the “why” rather than the “how,” unlike many who concentrate solely on implementation details.
Moreover, network architecture should integrate seamlessly with the business’s security and application architecture. Adopting a top-down approach requires more time and effort but ensures a robust and scalable network. Architects should also define Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and traffic patterns, creating a “cookie cutter” model that simplifies operations and ensures consistency.
In summary, aligning network architecture with business objectives and maintaining simplicity in design is key to sustainable and scalable network solutions.