Future proof connectivity

Connectivity infrastructure is arterial to every business—whether it’s internal connectivity to ensure smooth workflows, or tying-up geographically dispersed locations, say branch offices or distributors.

This month's cover story is not about the bare bones of connectivity, it a roadmap for new and not-so-new technologies that enterprises can adopt to ensure seamless, future proof information exchange.

Connectivity technologies have evolved over the years, and a deluge of new technologies like Wi-Fi, CDMA, OM3 optic fibre, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet promise to bring higher bandwidth, better QoS, and simpler management features. Many of these technologies work in parallel and some even compete with each other. So, which ones should you choose for your organisation?

To provide you, the busy CIO, with a fair estimate of the available connectivity options, we took on the task of analysing connectivity technologies, both wireless and wireline, for enterprise LAN, WAN and campus connectivity. In our stories we have included the two neglected aspects of connectivity—cabling and connectivity strategy.

Cabling is a long-term investment because it cannot be replaced every few years. It requires careful thought and planning so it can accommodate the increasing connectivity needs of the company.

A connectivity strategy is a must for any enterprise—how do you manage increased bandwidth requirements, or add to the existing network to accommodate suppliers and new branch offices. The story "Taking a organised approach to connectivity" (page 50) talks about the strategies that CIOs can adopt for capacity planning and optimisation.

In Hi-tech Hotshots, we have C N Ram, IT-Head of HDFC Bank talking about his journey from IIT/IIM-A to Bank of America and HDFC Bank thereafter.

In the case study section we have Fortis Healthcare that developed its own Healthcare Information System to overcome the lack of a readily available solution.

Sandeep Ajgaonkar
Associate Editor