PLANNING AND CONTROLLING COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS

The computer networking function today has important implications for the formulation of business strategy. At the same time these advanced capabilities have created a wide range of vulnerabilities. In past dec ades, computer networking has often been a ''back room'' operation sup ervised by lower level technical staff with a minimum of executive inv olvement. IS Management simply cannot afford to overlook the operation and control of this complicated and rapidly changing technology. This article examines the process of planning and controlling complex comp uter networks in modern organizations and identifies key dimensions in effectively meeting corporate networking needs while minimizing the b usiness risks of network downtime or insufficient network capacity.