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that we didn't skew the results by putting readers who occasionally stray to fill a specific need in the best-of-breed camp.

Among the advantages we see to the single-vendor approach are:

• It's easier, logistically, to deal with one provider, and this can impact TCO.

• It eliminates finger-pointing. When there are problems in a multivendor environment, one vendor tends to blame another. Sure, a skilled network-engineering staff can cut through the bull, but there are more productive goals toward which they should be devoting their energies.

• It alleviates support and training woes. Supporting multiple platforms means added training costs, and dealing with multiple vendors' support organizations can make life more difficult.

• It can save you money. Spending more money with a single vendor may mean big discounts.

• It streamlines network management. Unfortunately, standards aren't even in sight to make management possible across multiple vendors. If you use GUI-based network management to configure equipment, updating software and setting up QoS, you're going to have to run multiple providers' management products.

Still, even those who swear by the single-vendor approach should not be too rigid--there are many good reasons to roam, including:

• Gaining the flexibility to find the exact feature set and best price that fit your needs at any given time. Many vendors provide high-quality point solutions that are superior enough to justify adding other providers to your mix.

• Getting the technology you need, when you need it. Sometimes your preferred source simply can't get a needed technology out the door quickly enough.

• Keeping yourself current on what's available. It's good business to evaluate other companies' equipment periodically so you are positioned to make a switch if you become dissatisfied with your current vendor. Your knowledge of other companies' products may help keep your vendors on their toes, too.

Although our fictional company sought one vendor for its end-to-end infrastructure, it's keeping its options open for future adds, such as VoIP (voice over IP). Simplifying your network configuration whenever possible and sticking to standards will minimize the disadvantages of dealing with multiple vendors.