Tasks

1) Decide on equipment to be implemented (networking, computers, software).

Completed

Major accomplishments:

After meeting with Tony Perez, the systems administrator for Calvary Chapel Spring Valley to discuss possible network solutions. I decided on implementing a wireless network at Remnant Ministries. There were several reasons to implement a wireless network instead of hard wired. The number one reason, however, is cost. It will cost than one third of the price to implement a wireless network.

We will purchase 3 laptops from Hewlett Packard (HP). We will use Shelby church management software (as decided on during week 1).

2) Initiate service provider and supplier agreements.

Completed

Major accomplishments:

We made the initial contract to Sprint (which has now changed their name to Embarq since they and Nextel have merged). They require a two year contract to secure the lowest price they offer at $84.00 per month.

3) Formulate complete project cost.

Completed

Major accomplishments:

Cost Analysis

Netgear Wireless Router and 2 additional antannaes - $500

3 HP Pavillion Laptops w/3 year warranties - $6000

Shelby Systems Church management software - $500

Sprint ISP 5mbps - $84/month

Decisions

The biggest decision we made this week was to implement a wireless network. Our alternative plan would be to wire each room in the new building which would cost well into the thousands to have an outside contractor to install. The wireless network will save us time and a plethora of money.

Learning

1) What helpful feedback did you get in the class (instructor, classmates) and outside the class (user, stakeholder, beneficiary, mentor, expert advisor, others)? What did you learn from this feedback?

This week I received some very helpful feedback regarding wireless networking from Tony Perez. He let me know that it would be a viable option especially with a limited budget as most non profit organizations do have.

2) What resources did you use this week (e.g., people, money, equipment, systems, or software)? Did you add new resources? What was your learning?

This week I spoke to Tony Perez and the Randall Cunningham. They were very influential in many of the decisions made (wireless network, Shelby church management software) .

3) What research did you perform this week that was assisting and/or literature based? What is your findings/learning?

Research Question:

Is wireless networking a viable solution?

Source(s):

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/02_17/b3780009.htm

Answer/Learning:

Wireless is a very viable option for businesses. Many companies are turning to wireless because it is cost effective to traditional networks. Many cell phone companies offer phones a wireless capability. As wireless continues to pick up steam, more vendors will continue to create products which will increase wireless options and services.

Indicators

1) What went well this week? What didn’t?

This week we were concerned that it would be too expensive to wire the building room by room for our network. We were very happy with the cost of wireless equipment in comparison.

2) How well did you stick to your project schedule?

We did not deviate from our project schedule this week.

3) How prepared are you to conclude your project in Unit 10 as required in this course?

I am prepared to conclude my project in Unit 10.

Other

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