What skills do you need to successfully implement network transformation strategies?

1 Skill 1: Network Design and Architecture

One of the fundamental skills for network transformation is the ability to design and architect a network that meets the current and future needs of the organization. This involves understanding the business objectives, the network requirements, the existing infrastructure, and the potential solutions that can improve the network functionality and efficiency. You need to be able to evaluate and compare different network architectures, such as cloud, hybrid, or edge computing, and select the best option for your scenario. You also need to be familiar with the latest network technologies and standards, such as software-defined networking (SDN), network function virtualization (NFV), or 5G, and how they can be integrated into your network design.

2 Skill 2: Network Automation and Orchestration

Another essential skill for network transformation is the ability to automate and orchestrate the network processes and tasks that can reduce manual intervention, human errors, and operational costs. This involves using tools and scripts to configure, monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize the network devices and services, as well as applying policies and rules to ensure consistent and secure network behavior. You need to be proficient in programming languages, such as Python, PowerShell, or Ansible, and frameworks, such as Netconf, Yang, or Restconf, that can help you automate and orchestrate the network functions. You also need to be able to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enable self-healing, self-optimizing, and self-learning capabilities in your network.

3 Skill 3: Network Security and Compliance

A third crucial skill for network transformation is the ability to secure and comply with the network regulations and standards that can protect the network data and assets from cyberattacks and breaches. This involves implementing and enforcing network security policies and controls, such as firewalls, encryption, authentication, authorization, or intrusion detection and prevention systems, that can prevent, detect, and respond to network threats. You need to be aware of the network security best practices and frameworks, such as NIST, ISO, or CIS, and how they can help you comply with the network security requirements and audits. You also need to be able to monitor and analyze the network security events and incidents, and report and remediate any network vulnerabilities or risks.

4 Skill 4: Network Testing and Validation

A fourth important skill for network transformation is the ability to test and validate the network performance and functionality before, during, and after the network changes and upgrades. This involves conducting network assessments and audits to identify the network gaps and issues, and designing and executing network tests and simulations to verify the network outcomes and results. You need to be skilled in using network testing tools and methods, such as ping, traceroute, iperf, or Wireshark, that can help you measure and evaluate the network parameters, such as latency, throughput, bandwidth, or packet loss. You also need to be able to document and report the network testing findings and recommendations, and implement and verify the network improvements and fixes.

5 Skill 5: Network Communication and Collaboration

A fifth vital skill for network transformation is the ability to communicate and collaborate with the network stakeholders and team members that can ensure the network alignment and coordination. This involves defining and communicating the network vision, goals, and plans, and soliciting and incorporating the network feedback and input. You need to be able to use network communication and collaboration tools and platforms, such as email, chat, or video conferencing, that can help you share and exchange the network information and knowledge. You also need to be able to manage and resolve the network conflicts and challenges, and foster a network culture of trust, transparency, and teamwork.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?