Taxonomy of NOC

NOC functions

1

Define the different kinds of functions and responsibilities a NOC can have
(e.g., categorisation of networks and services).

Create a mapping between functions and different tools usually used to support each function.

NOC structure

2

Investigate what different types of NOCs (e.g., NREN NOC, campus NOC, project NOC etc...)
there are and how they generally relate to the network and services they handle.

Discuss benefits and disadvantages of different operational models (e.g., in-house or
outsourced NOC) and correlate which functions are more or less suitable to implement in either model.

Investigate how NOC personnel can be mapped to the internal organisation and how the
responsibilities are divided (e.g., dedicated NOC personnel or rotating experts).
Identify important factors to have in mind if migrating from one type to the other.

NOC workflows

3

Investigate what different service workflows are used and useful for a NOC.

Investigate what kinds of procedures are used and useful to support the NOC functions.

Setting up and
maintaining a NOC

4

Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of setting up a NOC with 24/7 or only support during
the day and identify the requirements such as resources needed to cover different shift work.

Collect information about initial knowledge sources that could be useful for
new network engineers working in a NOC (e.g., books, tutorials, online learning courses)

NOC assessment

5

Discuss which indicators are interesting to measure regarding NOC performance issues.

Create a list of KPI (Key Performance Indicators) and discuss how to measure them
and potential recommendations on how to achieve better performance.

NOC physical
arrangements

6

Gather information about physical arrangements (e.g., wall monitors or table arrangements) for NOCs
and discuss the benefits and disadvantages of different setups.