Assessing the Current Environment

Applies To: Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2003 R2, Windows Server 2003 with SP1, Windows Server 2003 with SP2

Before your team can begin planning the deployment of Windows Server 2003, you need to assess your organization’s current IT environment. Doing so helps you understand your organization’s structure, so that you can create a deployment plan that addresses real business needs.

Document the hardware and software used in your organization by conducting an inventory. Then, document your network and your IT environment by drawing diagrams and work process flowcharts that represent infrastructure relationships and processes, such as the relationship between your network and Microsoft® Active Directory® directory services architecture. After you have collected all relevant data about your environment, include these diagrams and flowcharts in your deployment plan.