Leading network architects are emphasizing flexibility over management and control. Instead of naively attempting to stem the tide of new applications, you should plan for adaptability in the infrastructure. Start by differentiating the strategic and reusable architectures, technologies and products from those that are tactical and one-off. Organizational upheaval may be necessary to make the shift from building networks fast to building them right. In fact, the best time to restructure planning efforts may be after a reorganization or when the business itself is fundamentally changing.
Nothing changes a business like a merger or acquisition.
What follows is a gruesome battlefield operation involving rusty saw blades and lots of blood. Early details of these major changes are often sketchy, and infrastructure people may be among the last to know. Plans must be generic enough to fit any scenario, but comprehensive enough so nothing's forgotten in the incendiary political climate of a corporate coup d'etat. In the information-gathering stage, focus on a detailed inventory of each organization's assets, in physical equipment and software, contracts and personnel. Also, collect data about ongoing and future infrastructure projects.