Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop strategies to accommodate shortfalls in capacity and functionality for a switching network. It also covers how to develop solutions for network growth using emerging technologies, including cloud computing.
It applies to individuals with excellent technical and strategic management skills working as telecommunications planning engineers and senior technical staff.
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. Evaluate current physical network infrastructure | 1.1 Analyse scalability, functionality, cost, security and energy consumption of existing physical network infrastructure 1.2 Report on shortfalls and risks of existing physical infrastructure in accommodating network growth and increased functionality 1.3 Investigate capacity and functionality shortfalls of existing physical infrastructure to highlight limitations of the existing switching network 1.4 Document estimated costs and issues associated with meeting capacity and functionality shortfalls using existing physical infrastructure |
2. Investigate the application of cloud networks | 2.1 Analyse trends in cloud networks (infrastructure-as-a-service), technologies and multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) architectures against rapid changes in the landscape 2.2 Determine applicability of cloud networks (infrastructure- as-a-service) to meet capacity and functionality requirements of the network 2.3 Assess risks in using cloud networks to meet capacity and functionality requirements of the network 2.4 Evaluate a range of cloud network solutions and justify selection of an optimum network switching solution 2.5 Develop solution elements using a series of small project elements 2.6 Produce a cloud network alternative solution to emulate the existing core network of a service provider |
3. Analyse the impact of the cloud network solution for system integration and across business domains | 3.1 Prepare a plan for organisational change control processes and integration of cloud network solutions within a complete network infrastructure 3.2 Prepare a test scenario and produce a test management schedule for the testing process of system elements and interfaces using simulation 3.3 Use integration document software to replicate issues exhibited in test environment 3.4 Certify cloud network solution compatibility and compliance to requirements using the web-based test management tool (quality centre) to conduct performance evaluation tests 3.5 Analyse test reports to evaluate load balancing and network security issues in test environment 3.6 Document and resolve conflicts detected in simulation testing |
4. Develop a business case for implementation of a cloud network | 4.1 Prepare a cost-benefit analysis of the cloud network solution as a business case to evaluate the return on investment (RoI) 4.2 Investigate staging of the solution and timing implementation of project elements as a scenario for real life implementation 4.3 Research and report on key features of cloud network implementation in a business case study |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of ability to:
evaluate the current physical network infrastructure’s capacity and functionality shortfalls
investigate application of cloud networks and plan architectural design
develop components of cloud networking solution for meeting capacity and functionality requirements of the network
assess risks in using cloud networks to meet capacity and functionality requirements of the network
analyse impact of integration of cloud network solution on network
prepare a test plan with test scenario and produce a test management schedule
use integration document and software test management tools to replicate issues exhibited in test environment
certify cloud network solution compatibility and compliance
prepare a cost-benefit analysis of the cloud network solution
develop a business case for implementation of a cloud network.
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:
analyse components of infrastructure-as-a-service solutions
summarise existing digital switching technology in service provider’s core network
outline information required to develop architectural solutions
explain integration document software
explain new cloud network technologies
provide a detailed summary of cloud networking transmission, transmitter and receiver architecture and their associated infrastructure
outline performance and integration requirements
prepare and/or interpret technical documentation
outline protocols as used on multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) and infrastructure-as-a-service
provide a detailed explanation of network components and their functions
explain specific organisational requirements relating to computer systems
summarise typical issues and challenges that occur with system changes.
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 should be typical of those experienced in the telecommunications networks engineering field of work and include access to:
a site where the application of cloud networks in telecommunications switching may be investigated
software tools currently used in industry
vendor products, specifications, equipment and enterprise policy required for the activity.
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, 2.1, 3.5, 4.3 | Researches, evaluates and interprets complex technical documentation, such as software and hardware manuals and design specifications |
Writing | 1.2, 1.4, 3.1, 3.2, 3.6, 4.1, 4.3 | Prepares clear and concise workplace documentation, including reports and recommendations incorporating technical language, to communicate complex information |
Numeracy | 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 3.5, 4.1 | Uses numerical information to interpret results, evaluate different types of technical data, take measurements and determine cost-effective outcomes for RoI |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1-2.5, 3.1-3.4, 3.6, 4.2 | Uses a combination of formal, logical planning processes and an increasingly intuitive understanding of context for complex, high-impact activities with strategic implications Implements actions according to a predetermined plan, making adjustments if necessary Takes responsibility for high-impact decisions in complex situations involving many variables and constraints Uses formal, analytical and lateral thinking techniques to resolve problems or to generate ideas Actively identifies digital systems, devices and applications with potential to meet current and/or future needs Uses main features and functions of digital tools to complete work tasks |
Sectors
Telecommunications – Telecommunications Networks Engineering