A Top-Down Model Used by Companies - Essay Example

The top–down approach involves five layers of processes. Each of these layers will be discussed keeping in mind the example of Intertex Corporation and its processes (Turban, McLean, & Wetherbe, 2004).
Firstly Business Layer is this level of the top–down approach, Intertex Corporation requires to work on the basic areas of the business which include the strategic business plans, process reengineering, and also the identification of the major business functions, processes, and opportunities (Goldman & Rawles, 2004). These include the need to focus on areas like the need for networking within the organization and also the implementation of WAN and LAN which helps standardize the overall processes.
Applications Layer: is the second step which involves using the WAN and LAN to pass on all information more simply to all employees within the company and to use this as an excellent opportunity to identify the needs for all information and knowledge within the company (Goldman & Rawles, 2004). Here this can be used to also essential information from the headquarters both locally as well as to remote locations as well.
The data Layer is the third step and this section is also an essential part of the approach. Here factors like database analysis and design are looked into along with other areas for the organization which include Data modeling, Data distribution analysis, and also aspects of Client/server architecture design (Goldman & Rawles, 2004). In the case of companies, for instance, Intertex this is an important stage and this forms the major part of the overall top-down approach. This stage is essential in the overall determination of requirements for the Top-down approach and this area focuses on all data collection and distribution for the business needs and information.
Network Layer as explained by Goldman and Rawles 2004 deals with, a) Network analysis and design, b) Logical network design (what), c) Network implementation planning, d) Network management and performance monitoring, e) Relate logical network design to data collection and, f) Distribution design. Here this would include the design and requirements of the WAN and LAN systems for the case of Intertex. The technology Layer is the last section and deals with the final physical network design and the local network design.
As seen each of the above steps plays an important role and focuses on the requirements for Intertex to a great extent. Following a top-down approach here in this case will allow the company to meet all the needs and focus on the right solution for the company. Read More