The network infrastructure of today's enterprise is in a perpetual state of evaluation and optimization. This requires the careful consideration of various factors, such as hardware components, equipment placement, heat dissipation, cooling, power consumption and short and long-term cost and expandability. An important resource throughout this process is the collection of designs and diagrams that help you analyze the complex systems and relationships that power your network infrastructure.

Microsoft Visio is one of the most popular applications for IT diagramming. The learning curve is relatively small, it is easy to use and its feature set serves as a solid platform for creating IT diagrams and documentation. This white paper highlights how you can create accurate and intelligent data center and rack documentation more efficiently by coupling Visio with a service-enhanced solution that offers a full complement of intelligent, manufacturer-specific equipment shapes, shape-embedded manufacturer specifications and automated tools for building front and rear rack views simultaneously in real-time.

Typically, useful network documentation requires a significant investment in time and effort. Because enterprise networks are in constant flux, many companies do not document their network on a regular basis. By adopting a sole source, service-based solution for network shapes and stencils, organizations can perform mission-critical documentation more regularly in ways that are simpler, faster and more effective.