The Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) have become nearly as foundational as power and water are to the functions of our modern-day facilities. In our schools, hospitals, homes, and all the places that we go to work and play, data and telecommunication systems are completely intertwined in all aspects of our lives.
This means that a lot is riding on the individuals and teams who design, construct, operate, and maintain data and telecommunications infrastructure and systems—we all depend on them getting it right every day,and recovering quickly from any blips that might occur.
In recognition of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, Wood Harbinger’s telecommunications expert, Matt Woo—an electrical engineer and registered communications distribution designer—explored all the things he thinks about when it comes to ICT systems design, especially for facility renovations and remodels in critical environments where systems must stay online.
“There are many different factors that you must consider for internet and ICT infrastructure and systems: speed, coverage, bandwidth, connectivity, interconnectivity, future flexibility, resiliency, survivability, security, wireless vs. wired access, construction phasing, downtime, temporary provisions, existing conditions, etc. All these factors must be well understood before we even start designing, and then they have to work together once installed to create reliable systems that function seamlessly, as required indifferent kinds of facilities.
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“For example, if a surgeon is using robotic technology in the operating room that requires internet connectivity, the system absolutely must have reliable high resolution and low latency. Now is not the time you want anything buffering!
“We work closely with facility owners and system users to understand their ICT needs and requirements and develop solutions that not only work on day-one, but also consider future flexibility and reliability for renovations, expansions, and technology upgrades. Data and telecommunication infrastructure should be able to last 20 to 30 years, even as technology rapidly evolves. Designing for this longevity requires future thinking and outside-the-box ideas to support long-term needs. If we’re thinking about it today, we set ourselves up to adapt to the future.”
About World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is a United Nations recognized celebration meant to “help raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) can bring to societies and economies, as well as ways to bridge the digital divide.”
Learn More! https://www.un.org/en/observances/telecommunication-day
