Capacity Planning and Performance Modeling

As we have noted on a variety of occasions, it usually takes technology to manage technology. This is particularly true in the area of evaluating the capacity of information technologies to meet the demands placed upon them. The case for this module looks at some aspects of this problem.

First, read this background on capacity planning:

TeamQuest (2010) How to do capacity planning, Retrieved Nov. 8, 2010, from http://forms.teamquest.com/forms/USCapacityPlanning?gclid=CKiI9oiv6qwCFQNeTAodEiyInw or here

Franklin (2011) IOPS: Performance Capacity Planning Explained. Synology. Retrieved Nov. 8, 2010, from http://blog.synology.com/blog/?p=146

But along with everything else in information technology, things are getting more and more complicated by the transfer of computing resources into "the cloud" - the online world where you don't own your computing environment, but simply inhabit it for a while. Here's a recent take on that issue:

Golden, B. (2011) Cloud makes Capacity Planning Harder - 3 Fight-Back Tips. CIO Magazine. Retrieved December 4, 2011, from http://www.cio.com/article/654471/Cloud_Makes_Capacity_Planning_Harder_3_Fight_Back_Tips

When you've had a chance to read these articles and to review other information from the background and other sources you may come across, please prepare a 2-3 page paper on the topic:

"Does a company need computer capacity evaluation when its computing power has been transferred to cloud-based systems?"

CASE EXPECTATIONS:

Your paper should be between three and five pages. Take a definite stand on the issues, and develop your supporting argument carefully. Using material from the background information and any other sources you can find to support specific points in your argument is highly recommended; try to avoid making assertions for which you can find no support other than your own opinion.

You will be particularly assessed on:

Precision: Your draw on a range of sources, and to establish your understanding of the historical context of the question. You carried out the exercise as assigned, or carefully explained the limitations that might have prevented your completing some parts (running out of time isn't generally considered an adequate limitation).

Support for assertions: You use examples, citations (especially to the required readings), and elaboration to support assertions. You provide evidence that you have read the required background materials.

Clarity: Your answers are clear and show your good understanding of the topic. You see what the module is all about and to structure your paper accordingly.

Breadth and Depth: The scope covered in your paper is directly related to the questions of the assignment and the learning objectives of the module.

Critical thinking: The paper incorporates YOUR reactions, examples, and applications of the material to business that illustrate your reflective judgment and good understanding of the concepts. It is important to read the "required readings" posted in the background material plus others you find relevant. Your informed commentary and analysis is vital -- simply repeating what your sources say does not constitute an adequate paper.

Overall quality: Your paper is well written and the references, where needed, are properly cited and listed (refer to the university guidelines (http://www.trident.edu/Media/Default/pdf/Well-Written-Paper.pdf) if you are uncertain about formats or other issues.