The FTS Process
FedTechServices, INC offers a logical and comprehensive system for consulting that makes network consulting simple. This system is called the FTS Process.
Using a five-level hierarchical approach, the FTS Process develops solutions to network management problems through a systematic approach. It addresses the most common error, the failure to recognize that network problems are not isolated events simply fixed with a software patch or by identification of a single security vulnerability. FTS approaches network management and security by recognizing five levels of solution development: Programmatics, Implementation, Operations, Development and Enrichment.
The goal of the FTS Process is to develop a state-of-the-art solution supporting the fastest, most efficient network communications possible. The FTS Process develops a suite of tools that deliver effective network management while enhancing security of operational networks.
Each of the five levels in the FTS Process includes multiple, sequential steps that can be displayed graphically as a series of rings. Orderly completion of each of the steps guides the client toward a comprehensive and well-supported solution. While individual steps within each of the rings represent discrete tasks or problems that may be addressed on a standalone basis, the FTS Process identifies the position of each of those tasks as part of a complex process. Failing to grasp the scope of the overall process leads to wasted time and effort by creating redundancies and incompatible solutions.
Programmatics
The outermost level of the FTS Process is titled "Programmatics." Analysis conducted in this phase drives the entire process. It begins with the fundamental step of making a business assessment. Just as the first steps of any business plan require an assessment of the proposed business, developing a network solution requires assessing the business the network is serving.
The second step is gap analysis, the evaluation of how existing resources meet the current and anticipated needs of the business. A common mistake is to assume new products or services require new network products. Maximizing existing resources is far more efficient than reinventing or repurchasing tools and assets. Gap analysis identifies the missing pieces in existing architecture and tools.
Analysis of existing resources includes determination of whether needed tools already are present. Hardware and software may be underutilized and have excess capacity, or simply may be repurposed to address current needs. With a business assessment in hand, the next determination is whether to develop new tools or to select appropriate commercial off-the-shelf products. Specification of the appropriate network architecture will lead to a detailed specification of the network's physical components, their functional organization and configuration, operational principles and procedures, as well as data formats.
The final step at the programmatics level is the development of a timeline to implement what is needed.
Implementation
After completing the analyses of the programmatics phase, the process moves to the second ring, "Implementation." Consultants frequently find clients have attempted to move directly to this phase. Products often are purchased without conducting the evaluation that would have answered the question of whether the vendor proposal took advantage of network components already in place. With a business assessment complete and missing portions of the architecture and tools identified, FTS will oversee implementation of its recommendations.
Too often clients assume the proper response to a problem or business opportunity is the purchase of a new "box" from vendors eager to market hardware or software. That new "box" may be part of the solution, but cannot be implemented successfully without being identified as a step in an analytical process. As specialists in network management and security, FTS consultants can oversee installation, configuration and customization of a recommended solution. Integration with existing operations will be part of that solution. As a final step toward implementation, fine tuning assures a seamless transition and meshing of components before turnover of a complete solution package.
Operations
The "Operations" level is at the heart of the FTS Process. Using its consultants' detailed knowledge of network management and security software, FTS services can include continued administration. This is the first step in the third ring of Operations. The next step is sustainment. Changes in the environment are inevitable and solutions must evolve to sustain continued successful operations. This step goes beyond routine maintenance as it recognizes and adopts the continual advances in hardware and software products.
FTS also can provide routine maintenance and patches as needed or point releases as new enhancements are released for existing hardware or software. Operations are central to the FTS Process and clients frequently regard them as the entirety of the solution. The FTS Process hierarchy recognizes operations as the literal and figurative midway point. It is neither beginning nor end.
Understanding the needs of clients requires an in-depth background in network management, including an understanding of the capabilities, availability and cost of hardware and software products and services. FTS is known as a "consultant to consultants" and has assisted other consulting companies by providing an unmatched degree of network management knowledge.
Development
"Development" is the fourth ring in the FTS Process and also is an ongoing process. No operations solution is final because the environment is never static. Development is a continuing effort to cope with an ever-evolving mix of changing needs and available tools. Enhancements to the solution are recommended for the system architecture and processes as needed, whether due to changes in available hardware and software or to changes in the business environment.
System architecture must address the inevitable need for changes to its base functionality as the environment demands additional services or offers new opportunities. Such development needs may include non-routine maintenance, upgrading or expanded testing and documentation. Each of those steps is addressed by the FTS Process.
Enrichment
The innermost level of the FTS Process is "Enrichment." Solutions development is never static. Products and services evolve as technology evolves and as expectations and demands increase. Staffing changes and turnover require continual training and education. Following the FTS Process guides the client from Process Creation through Process Maturing to reevaluation, beginning the cycle again. Ongoing support is provided through training development, which may include customized solution-based training or specific product-based training.
The FTS Process is a road map for network management analysis. It creates solutions that solve problems.