One of the biggest challenges for network managers is to accurately document the design and topology of the corporate network. The problem is often procrastination – “It's not the way it should or will look – so we'll document the network when it's finished.” But there is one indisputable truth – it's never finished. The network design and topology lives and breathes – it's always changing. When it comes to network topology design and documentation, there is only one place and time to start – here and now.
It Won't Always Look Like This
There is no shame in documenting the current state of the enterprise LAN, even if it is not optimal. In most cases, management will understand that the LAN is a work in progress, and will change and evolve with business requirements. It's important for IT management to understand that prior to any significant network redesign or equipment refresh, it is critical to have documentation on the current network configuration and topology.