Today, virtually all suppliers of IT consulting services still cleave to the archaic notion of a sequential systems lifecycle. Network & Security Technologies (N&ST) looks at the solution methodology for networking and security somewhat differently 

The traditional IT lifecycle methodology follows a logical and sequential progression:

• Requirements
• Design
• Implementation
• Operation
• Evaluation

However, the classic model is not “Good Enough” to meet the demands of today’s high paced, ever changing technology landscape. In the classic life cycle model, the last step produces requirements, which restarts the cycle. However, nothing really works this way in real life. We continually evaluate: Are the requirements correct? Does the design fulfill them? How well is the design implemented? Does it meet the design? Are those charged with maintaining the system doing so properly?

Errors in any of the lifecycle steps can lead to performance problems or security vulnerabilities. If an organization waited until the end of the cycle to evaluate it would never succeed.

N&ST’s Unique Approach to Networking and Security
N&ST approaches networking and security differently. First, it is a mistake to view the network, systems and security as independent entities. We believe that changes to systems or the infrastructure affect security. Similarly, changes in security affect the systems and the infrastructure.

Second, our six step methodology weaves the process of continual evaluation throughout the entire life cycle. These are:

• Strategy
• Design
• Plan
• Implement
• Process
• Operate

Fundamental to any successful business. However, no organization is ever in just one place in the cycle. Typically, one method of operation is in place while thoughts are given to improvements. Sometimes, a complex strategy requires a phased design and implementation—bringing new function on line in an incremental fashion.

All of this takes time and time is business’s foe.

New technology brings with it the opportunity for higher performance and new features and a chance to raise the bar with your competitors. A design, while secure at its inception, may become vulnerable to newly created attacks. Changes in personnel and organization structure erodes operations and support capability. Failing to keep up leads to a failure of the infrastructure—the most valuable corporate asset.

This is where continual evaluation of every step is necessary. Again, N&ST has the experience and knowledge in networking and security to help. Experience is the most critical element for success. It enables an organization to avoid the costly mistakes of the past. Knowledge is the vital nutrient, ensuring every component of the infrastructure—technology, process, and personnel—are used appropriately.

Full Service

N&ST has developed a set of modular and sequential consulting service offerings that address all steps of the cycle and evaluate your progress throughout. These services provide what you need when you need it. The people of N&ST live and breathe this methodology. And, of course, they have the years of experience and training to deliver. The full suite of services include:

• Security Assessment
• Network Assessment
• Security Policy Development
• Security Design
• Network Design
• Deployment Planning and Implementation
• Penetration Testing

N&ST is ready to help. Give us a call to find out more.