Often, network administrators are more focused on routes, packets and other granular network details but miss the bigger picture. While no project ever goes 100 percent smoothly, here are some tips to help avoid some common errors:

1. Create company network standards

As a network administrator, you need a physical infrastructure installed that meets your specifications upon which to build a functional network. Note that sometimes a network administrator's responsibility is not limited to the packet network, as in the previous article the communications department was also responsible for designing and managing the fiber-optic cable plant.

"Infrastructure" refers to much more than the cable plant. You need proper power receptacles, equipment racks, conduits, cable trays, HVAC, physical space ... the list goes on and on. You can increase the chance of getting what you need by creating two documents that serve as your network construction project standards.

The first document is a compilation of your company's network standards in the Construction Specifications Institute format. The MasterFormat 2004 Edition is a construction manual standard used extensively in the construction industry. It covers everything from types of ceiling tiles to plumbing to communications. Specifically, Division 27000 is where network related requirements are placed.