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Stackable Network VS Chassis Network

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5 replies

by cartwrightb

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I'm looking for an easy way to visually explain how a chassis network
backbone solution compares to a stackable network backbone solution. I have
a budget meeting with my Board of Director who will ultimately decide if I
get a stackable switched solution or a chassis switch solution. I believe
the best way to show the superiority of a chassis system over a stackable
system is by diagramming it. The Board of Directors are not technical
people.

Any ideas would be appreciated

5 replies

by realgem

If you're making a case before a BoD who are not tech-savvy, then the last thing I would worry about is a diagram of how the backbones look or operate. The BoD doesn't care, so save yourself the embarrassment.

Focus on costs and benefits instead. What is the cost of each: purchase, implementation, support, planned upgrades, etc. How stable are the vendors? What are the benefits of each option: improved network performance, lower operating costs, etc.

Don't tell them things like "xyzMbps" either. Tell them how much faster e-mail will be, how much less time their secretaries will spend waiting for files to open and close, or how much longer the preferred solution will be viable (i.e. how long before the next expensive upgrade).

Work it from this angle. If they ask tech questions, have the material ready, but don't be tempted into jargon. Watch out for glazed-over eyes!

Although some graphics describing the basic nature of each alternative would be useful, the best visuals you can give them will be charts and graphs of cash flows.

Good luck!

by james_randy

That was a very thoughtful and thorough first answer. Why don't you go ahead and accept that answer and close the question.

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