Remote access networks spread the word

Remote access networks help cities and counties streamline operations by enabling them to share information and unite branch offices. Flexible, modular systems go a step further, helping local governments to cost-effectively make use of emerging technologies.

An increasing number of local governments are implementing remote access networks to make public resources available to citizens. An affordable system capable of growing with a community’s needs maximizes the benefits of such networks.

Also, given the rate at which technologies are developed and replaced, choosing a flexible, cost-effective network is critical.

Chances are that right now a user is tapping into Seattle’s network. The fire chief might be looking for an arson report. A coach could be reserving a ballpark; a recent college graduate might be searching for a job. Linking together 82 sites and a multitude of teleworkers, Seattle’s network demonstrates how the information superhighway can unite public departments and private citizens by making information easily accessible and up-to-date.

More than two years ago, when the city set up its network as a small-scale experiment within its data processing and telecommunications division, no one expected it to catch on so well, says Seattle Data Communications Engineer Willie Swetlow. Although upgrades were not planned in the network’s early days, Seattle’s modular remote access solution has proven indispensable in the network’s explosive growth.

Users often cite flexibility as the most important attribute for a remote access network. Performance will inevitably falter if a system cannot easily integrate emerging technologies. A modular system allows new technologies to be implemented just as easily as new sites are added.

Interoperability is vital because a variety of ever-changing needs must be met within an existing network. A single teleworker might only require a small-scale edge device, while a larger edge router may be needed to unite numerous branch offices. If the single teleworking site grew into an office, its network should be able to easily accommodate the necessary upgrades. Another key element of flexibility is the ability to work with numerous carriers and various telephone line connections, such as ISDN, PBX, BRI and PRI.

In addition to aggressively investigating vendors’ reputations, other tactics for starting a remote access network include:

* Starting small. Successful systems grow to match both demand and employees’ increasing expertise. Starting with a core user group, such as power teleworkers, helps an organization get a sense of the challenges and opportunities associated with networking before investing on a large scale;

* Knowing your applications. Different software applications work better with different technologies. In order to maximize your system’s benefits, investigate all aspects of a network, down to nitty-gritty details such as what conditions could cause specific software to fail; and

* Growing with technology. As technologies are developed, older ones are available at lower prices. Although most municipalities cannot afford cutting-edge technology when it hits the market, a network should enable users to easily and cost-effectively obtain technology as it becomes available. For example, because PRI lines are becoming increasingly affordable, Seattle is thinking of switching over. Vendor support is critical both during and after such a change.

In addition to their technical benefits, remote access networks can help pull together today’s fast-paced citizens into a close-knit, sharing community.