UEN is a far different place today than it was a short 3 years ago. At that time we had a network with a lot of ATM gear and a dependence on aggregating T-1 circuits to the nearest hub. Our customers were testifying in front of legislators. UEN was not responsive, according to some. A multi-day outage just prior to the end of the school year had a lot of people up in arms. And we had just gone through a turnover in staff of over 25%. Those who left were some of the most experienced at UEN and there were some glum faces around our offices. And, to top it off, we were living in some pretty depressing old dorm rooms.

Since them we have added Gigabit Ethernet circuits in our core ring, retrofitted the entire backbone, undertaken a number of Ethernet project all around the state, installed three new OC-3 radio links, embarked on a complete refit of our video system, increased security awareness, hired some great new employees, increased staff, built a new machine room, increased our budget every year (despite, as my boss put it, living through the worst economic times in 25 years), installing a SAN, getting involved as an ASP for several highly visible statewide projects, rebuilt the UEN web page and so much more. By the end of the summer we will have GigE data services throughout the length of the state.

In addition, we have implemented an advocate program, eight regional Technical Forums, a weekly security call, negotiated bringing National Lambda Rail connectivity to Utah and delivered on over 90% of all request from our customers for the past three years.

So why do I feel overwhelmed. This week will be another 65+ hour endeavor. Most of the UEN staff will give a similar effort. Expectations are up. The pressure is up. We have been successful. Beyond anything we could have guessed just a few short years ago. But more is expected. I feel miserable because I'm far short of perfect and no matter how much we do, for some, it isn't enough............
11:03:14 PM    comment []