© 2006 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 1Version 4.0
Preparing the Proposal
Designing and Supporting Computer Networks – Chapter 9

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Objectives
 Prepare the proposal using the information developed
so far
 Plan for the Internetwork implementation, including
timelines, downtime requirements and installation
requirements
 Identify software and hardware support contract
options
 Present the network proposal, including
implementation schedule and cost summary

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Begin Preparing the Proposal using the
Information Developed so Far
 Organize the existing information
 Determine the format requested in the RFP
 If no format is specified, prepare a layout and design for
the proposal

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Begin Preparing the Proposal using the
Information Developed so Far
Integrate the existing information:
 Executive summary
 Network requirements and current network
environment
 Physical and logical design

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
 Create an Implementation plan
 Create a cost proposal
 Include customer expectations and success criteria
 Obtain customer approval before beginning
implementation

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
Determine the best installation method:
 New installation
 Phased installation
 Complete replacement

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
 Estimate timelines and resources

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Plan for the Internetwork Implementation
 Create an installation schedule based on maintenance
windows and downtime allowances

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Plan for the Installation
Prepare the cost estimate by creating a Bill of Material:
 Order new and replacement parts
 Identify additional devices
 Identify upgrades to existing devices
 Identify software requirements

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Plan for the Installation
Describe the services and support provided by the
SMARTnet agreement:
 Software support
 Cisco TAC
 Registered access to Cisco.com
 Advanced replacement of hardware parts.

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Plan for the Installation
 Describe the main benefits/entitlements of Cisco
technical services and support

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Plan for the Installation
 Identify the benefits of Cisco software support

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Present the Network Proposal to the
Customer
 Complete the proposal and develop a proposal
presentation

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Present the Network Proposal to the
Customer
Present the network design proposal to the class and
gain sign-off from the instructor:
 Include slides or other visual aids
 Incorporate presentation best practices

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Summary
 Implementing a network design includes installing
hardware, configuring systems, testing the network,
and launching the network into production.
 Maintenance windows and planned downtime need to
be included in the installation timeline.
 The SMARTnet program offers the customer service
enhancements and maintenance support resources.
 Proper preparation before the presentation can mean
the difference between customer sign-off and losing the
project.

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