Option #1: IT Infrastructure for a Small Firm

For the Portfolio Project, you will have one of two projects from
which to choose. For Option #1, you will develop a technology project
proposal that outlines a technology plan for a small firm. In Option #1,
you have been hired as an IT expert by a small firm to set up an office
for 20 staff members, half of whom will work with desktop computers,
and the remaining with laptop computers using wireless networks. The
office will use one networked laser printer, accessible both from the
desktop and laptop computers. The desktop computers will use a wired
network, while the laptop computers will employ a wireless network to
print and access the Internet.

You will incorporate Phases 1-3 in your Portfolio Project as a
technological proposal. Phases 1-3 serve as the basis of the project
deliverable section in the technological proposal, which you will submit
as a full project (Phase 4) in Module 8.

Phase 1:

• Statement of the Problem or Need: Write a description of the purpose/need/rationale for a small firm. What problem(s) are you planning to solve for a small firm?
• Project Deliverables: Write a description of the
  necessary hardware components and software to set up computer systems
  for the business/firm. Phase 1 of the Portfolio Project is due in Module
  2.

Keep in mind that you will update the project deliverable
section as you complete different phases and when you receive feedback
from your instructor.

Phase 2:

• Project Beneficiaries: Write a description of who will derive direct benefit from the project and how they will benefit.
• Project Deliverables: Write a description of the
  computer network hardware necessary to set up the computer networks and
  the necessary software and protocols.

Keep in mind that you will update the project deliverable
section as you complete different phases. Phase 2 of the Portfolio
Project is due in Module 4.

Phase 3:

• Assumptions and Constraints: Write a
  description of any assumptions and constraints regarding the project.
  Are there any assumptions made so far or constraints identified in the
  project? Are there any constraints or anything that would restrict the
  ability to achieve the IT project objectives successfully?
• Project Deliverables: Write a description of what
  is necessary to acquire and install the computer and network security
  hardware and software. Phase 3 of the Portfolio Project is due in Module
  6.

In Phase 4 you will include revisions based on
feedback from your instructor, and you will incorporate what you have
learned throughout the term. Your technological proposal should include
the following:

• Statement of the Current Problem: Describe the purpose/need/ rationale for the IT project. What problem is this IT project designed to address?
• Project Deliverables and Beneficiaries: Describe
  the objective of the IT project; what is the IT project to achieve,
  create, or deliver? Please identify who will derive a direct benefit
  from the expected outcome.
• Time Factors: Are there any time factors, such as
  deadlines, that should be considered in your IT implementation proposal?
  Create a timeline for implementation.
• Qualifications: Write a short description of your qualifications.
• Project Assumptions and Constraints: Are there any
  assumptions made so far or constraints identified in the project? Are
  there any constraints or anything that would restrict the ability to
  achieve the IT project objectives successfully?
• Project Risks: Are there any risks associated with
  the IT project? For instance, will there be data that should not be
  available to the public? Are there any risks that might prevent a
  successful project outcome?
• Project Expenses: Please indicate what IT expenses
  will be associated with this project as well as the sources for funding.
  Provide the most accurate estimates that you can, which includes the
  cost to complete the project and maintenance after the project.

The Portfolio Project should meet the following requirements:

• Ten to twelve pages (minimum) in length, not including the cover and reference pages.
• Formatted according to the CSU-Global Guide to Writing and APA Requirements.
• Cite a minimum of five to seven sources, five of which should be
  academic peer-reviewed scholarly sources and in-text citations to
  support your responses, in addition to your textbook. The CSU-Global
  library is a great place to find these resources.