Converged Data Network: Starting a converged network implementation is much less daunting than launching a new business. Like a successful business plan, however, a successful network requires effective strategies and realistic math. Read more about voice data network convergence and more.

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by Howard Baldwin, illustration by Adam McCauley. iQMagazine

Consider the new arithmetic of a converged network

Summary
Starting a converged network implementation is much less daunting than launching a new business. Like a successful business plan, however, a successful network requires effective strategies and realistic math.

From Cisco: Resellers Offer Help with Converged Networks When you're ready to consider a converged network, where do you turn for the technology expertise that applies to your particular business? Cisco registered partners can be a valuable resource for network planning, design, implementation, service or support, or simply initial research. These Cisco resellers—especially those that focus on serving SMBs—can be your trusted technology advisers. "We have local knowledge of the marketplace," says Rick Phillips, director of sales and marketing at Envision Networked Solutions (also known as EOH Enterprises) in Honolulu, a Cisco Silver Certified Partner and SMB Select Partner with IP Communications specialization. "We can work closely with the customer in terms of site surveys, research, and gathering information. And we know the competitive marketplace so we can advise you on other technologies."

Twenty years ago, you wouldn't start a business without a telephone system. Ten years ago, you wouldn't start one without a computer. What are the must-have communications tools if you start a new business now? Phones? Computers? Internet access? E-mail? Business applications? Wireless access? Now you can simplify the decision by converging all your communications tools on a single network.

Converged Communications
The days of starting a business and having to design, deploy, and manage two distinct networks for voice and data communications are receding due to the capabilities of Internet Protocol (IP) Communications technologies.

"You no longer need separate voice and data systems," says Lance Reid, CEO of NetLogic, a Cisco Premier Certified and SMB Select Partner specializing in converged networks. "The technology exists to put them together on the same network, so you have a single structure, lower maintenance costs, and fewer changes. If you're starting from scratch, it makes sense to take advantage of that functionality."