Policies

Common good funding of the University's network introduces a fixed-cost financial model to managing the network. As a consequence, prudent management of the network's resources and unbudgeted expenses is critical.

Per-connection costs are no longer passed directly to the consumer, which could potentially create a perception that network connections are "free". In this context the new common good/central funding model changes the dynamics associated with network service provisioning and infrastructure capacity. OIT is challenged to provide ubiquitous network access to users while at the same time, holding the line on unexpected/unbudgeted costs.

ETHJK Network Management

OIT is developing a network infrastructure capacity planning process that identifies excess network port capacity and earmarks it for redistribution where necessary.

• New infrastructure is purchased with OIT's existing standard to minimizing costs and compatibility risk
• OIT exhausts hardware/electronics through re-allocation/re-distribution before new is equipment purchase

Converting a Private LAN to the OIT Managed Network

Because indirect cost recovery creates the perception that 'everyone pays the same', privately managed networks may ask that OIT assume network management responsibilities. Conversion to University managed network encompasses the following elements:

• Audit network connections and record the results prior to network supportability
• Determine the feasibility of supporting the privately-managed network electronics
• Upgrade electronics when necessary
• Installation and horizontal wiring costs remain the responsibility of the customer in the form of labor and material charges
• Request to work with an NTS Project Manager to assist in your conversion

Who Pays for Network Infrastructure?

Funding sources are identified by the size of the project.

• Large projects (new or renovated building) - the University's capital budget process
• Medium projects (multiple switches/lots of ports/higher speeds) - addressed in a shared funding agreement between OIT, the Project and the Customer's Department
• Small projects (incremental network port additions) - funded by OIT