Abstract
M.Com. (Informatics)
This dissertation examines the field of network management in a banking
environment. Special attention is given to business aspects that might
influence network management. Technical aspects of network management
are only discussed briefly. The study is broadly divided into two sections, the
theoretical background and the formulation of a network model in the banking
environment.
Banks require that their services must always be of the highest standard.
Special attention is given to services that banks provide on a daily basis.
Network management can become very technical and complex. Large
networks can become a nightmare to manage without proper business
management principles. The dissertation offers an introduction to business
principles and concentrates on different environments that might influence
banks and their networks. The study indicates the importance of the open
system environment for banks. The success of open systems largely depends
on the acceptance of standards set by standard organizations like ISO
(International Standards Organization). Banks in general are mainly
dependent on IBM products and they rely on IBM to provide for their open
needs. The dissertation covers the problems that IBM faces in opening up
their systems. Network management protocols are very important. Today
there are two main contenders in this area, namely SNMP and CMIP. In the
future both protocols might play a role in managing networks.
Identification of banks' needs and requirements is important for the definition
of the model. Special consideration is given to external factors influencing
banks and their networks. To isolate these influences three environments can
be identified namely the macro, market and micro environments. The most
important requirement of banks is to provide a reliable and continuous service
of high standing quality to their clients. Banks provide a variety of financial
services to their customers and the competition between different banks
makes the development of new, and the improvement of existing services ...