RSS
CENTERFOLDKPMG Network Mixes Business And Serviceby Maureen ZaprylukIt may take some time to load in your browser! To download an Adobe Acrobat .pdf format version of the Centerfold graphic, click here. It should take less time to downoad than the gif! KPMG is one of the world's Big Six accounting firms. The Radnor site exists on an integrated Ethernet and ATM network that serves approximately 275 people and supports 2,000 people nationwide in the Strategic Services Practice. It also allows for extensive technology research and development functions. KPMG made a transition from conventional Ethernet to a switched Ethernet and ATM environment. "We're doing a lot of technology development, prototyping and piloting of emerging technologies, which will put heavy demand on the network," says Mark McElroy, the partner in charge of the Enterprise Networks Practice. The ATM backbone is being used in a production mode, connecting subnets, Ethernet segments, and two floors that are five floors apart over fiber. Other ATM ports are reserved for prototyping projects. Protocols used include TCP/IP, Novell IPX and AppleTalk. The firm has a WAN bounded by Cisco routers. A separate video-conferencing network connects to the headquarters through a Switched 56 line. Multimedia applications including voice, audio and video run across the backbone. Users access all intellectual assets, such as client files, the e-mail system, tools, methodologies and reports through KnowledgeManager, an electronic bulletin board system. In a "kiosk," KPMG's heterogeneous lab environment concept, representatives can custom-design a varied environment for a client and demonstrate leading-edge applications of technology, or showcase current prototyping or testing. KPMG connects to the Internet and uses it for gathering information, as part of the consulting business to help clients design Web pages, for advertising and to develop electronic commerce applications for the Internet, such as secure banking transaction applications. Within a year, KPMG plans to implement an ATM "video wall ," a presentation tool that will be in the reception area to display various programming options online. Also on the development plate is a prototype for a comprehensive system to manage the switched Ethernet, ATM and WAN environments, to be integrated over the next two months. KPMG will also launch a healthcare project that will contain emerging applications for telemedicine and medical imaging. n March 11, 1996 |
