ICTNPL601
Plan the development and growth of the telecommunications network


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to analyse and evaluate forecast data to plan development and growth of the telecommunications network.

It applies to individuals with a high level of specialist technical skills and knowledge in optical telecommunications and IT networks using internet protocol (IP) systems.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Element

Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Gather data related to existing and projected network usage

1.1 Access market intelligence for information on customer demand on the network and likely growth in network use

1.2 Obtain demand data to plan for potential network traffic quantity and flow

1.3 Access information relating to new and emerging technologies, facilities and features, and their specific applications

1.4 Access relevant legislation and associated operational codes and analyse impact on planning processes

2. Assess need for network growth

2.1 Evaluate capacity of existing network to absorb planned growth using network capacity usage and traffic measurements

2.2 Plan likely timing of necessary network increments to minimise impact on the network

2.3 Assess use of new or alternate technologies to meet forecast growth

3. Develop network plans

3.1 Assess overall planning parameters including approved business plan prior to commencement of planning process

3.2 Analyse gathered information and produce a project plan with specifications to meet network growth

3.3 Conduct appropriate investment study including cost benefit analysis, where required, with consideration of barriers that may affect project plan

3.4 Produce a network plan with detailed specifications and seek approval according to enterprise procedures

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of ability to:

gather comprehensive data related to existing and projected network usage

accurately assess need for network growth

develop detailed network plans.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

outline the following general processes of network growth:

cost estimates and operating budgets according to enterprise policy

project management theory, associated databases and project management software programs

telecommunications industry in Australia

outline economic and political influences on public and commercial enterprises

outline economic and political influences on public and commercial enterprises

identify relevant financial authorities and delegations

outline the influence of local and international economic conditions on the telecommunications industry

describe typical challenges and limits facing technology today and consideration of future needs

identify relevant legislation

explain the process for collating and writing project briefs, reports and project charters.


Assessment Conditions

Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the Telecommunications – Network Planning field of work and include access to:

data from organisations involved in planning initiatives

a range of software currently used in industry

relevant regulations

specifications that impact forecasting activities.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational education and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance Criteria

Description

Reading

1.1-1.4, 2.3, 3.1, 3.3

Analyses and evaluates complex written and visual text in specialised workplace documentation to determine key information and specific requirements

Evaluates complex text to determine legislative, regulatory and project requirements, and their potential impact on the project

Writing

3.1, 3.2, 3.4

Develops complex material for a specific audience using clear and detailed language and visuals while employing expected forms and conventions

Prepares reports which incorporate evaluation of information and specialised and cohesive language

Oral Communication

1.1, 1.3

Clearly articulates requirements using language appropriate to audience and environment, and participates in a verbal exchange of ideas and solutions

Numeracy

2.1, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4

Interprets numerical information and applies appropriate mathematical formulas to calculate different future possibilities

Analyses data to measure present and predicted usage and assess different scenarios

Navigate the world of work

1.4

Ensures knowledge of legislative requirements and products is kept up-to-date to provide accurate information

Develops and implements strategies that ensures organisational policies, procedures and regulatory requirements are being met

Get the work done

1.1-1.4, 2.1, 2.3, 3.1-3.3

Plans strategic priorities and outcomes within a flexible, efficient and effective context in a diverse environment exposed to competing demands

Gathers and analyses data and seeks feedback to improve plans and processes

Makes high-impact decisions in a complex and diverse environment, using input from a range of sources

Addresses complex problems involving multiple variables, using formal analytical, lateral thinking techniques experience and knowledge to focus in on the root cause

Uses digital technologies to manage business operations and actively investigates new technologies for strategic and operational purposes


Sectors

Telecommunications – Network Planning