Virtual Network Technology

The focus of the activities described here clearly indicates that technology support is not in itself the most important aspect of establishing an effective virtual enterprise network. However technology is very important, as it is effectively impossible for a virtual network to operate properly without it. It is therefore necessary but not sufficient!.

Virtual Networks sometimes start off working purely through exchange of email however they rapidly discover that once the number of participants grows beyond 3 or 4 the control, versioning and review of documents, such as joint bids, becomes extremely difficult.

"technology is very important, as it is effectively impossible for a virtual network to operate properly without it..."

The technology needed to support a virtual network in its early stages is relatively simple. What is required is a network web site, with password controlled access and permissionable folders which provides a means of communicating (selective and broadcast), sharing information, scheduling meetings and managing discussions on various topics. It should be browser-based which means it can be used from any PC (not just in the members office) with Internet access without the need for any software to be installed.

As the Virtual Network develops its maturity and moves through the different stages its technology requirements increase. The VISION Technical Architecture allows for the network to scale-up through three levels of supporting technology and to incorporate both custom-developed and third party applications as required.