On October 3, 2000, BTI experienced a large-scale network outage, which, according to preliminary reports, cost the company $456,000. Investigation of the problem determined that the outage was due to a protocol programming error. During this situation, our entire network was analyzed, and the results were reported to the company. The error that caused the outage has been corrected, but the analysis discovered many more problems that could lead to situations like the one on October 3. The most serious problem is the age of our network. The system analysts determined that our network, while still adequate, is not up to the standards that are required to meet our clients' needs. We feel that for BTI to continue to be a competitive integrated communications provider, we must determine if a new network is needed and which system would be right for our needs.
             The purpose of this report will be to determine if the network at BTI is adequate to handle our clients' needs and our own, and if an upgrade or replacement of the system is needed.
             The digital communications industry is currently one of the fasting growing industries. In the last five years, we have seen the number of companies providing integrated communication services jump an unprecedented 500%. To maintain its competitive position and meet the needs of our clients, it might be necessary for BTI to consider upgrading or replacing our current network.
             This study will include an in-depth analysis of our current network. An outside company will do this task. We are currently inquiring about three different system analyses that have done work with many of our competitors. This will help us decide how far ahead of us the other companies are. The study will consist of three parts. The first will consist of a test of the network to determine its full capabilities. The second will determine if the employees at BTI are properly trained to operate and service our present equipment and ...