Determine which processes and activities need improvement. Most networks are installed because people want to share computer files, printers, modems, etc. Others want the ease of communications and the simplicity of data access throughout the organization or department. If your objective is merely to share a printer, there are low-cost printer sharing devices that will handle the task. While the Yellow Pages of the telephone book will give you listing after listing of organizations and individuals, you should make certain that the firm you select is trained and certified in networking.
Some people are experts in hardware while others specialize in software.
You need someone who is an expert in both. If questions or problems arise, you'll want to have one person that you can turn to for help, not three or four people pointing their fingers at each other while you wait for the problem to be resolved. Visit the business, talk with managers and employees and see for yourself how the network is operating. Once you find an integrator or reseller who is committed to user satisfaction and support, make certain that their organization is adequately staffed and well-trained. Novell, for example, does an excellent job of training, certifying and continually updating their resellers in all aspects of network site surveys, installation and follow-up support.