Why Deploying IPv6 Is Like Learning a Foreign Language

When your team introduces a new technology into your organization, you may face a number of project management challenges. However, you can also think of yourself as trailblazers who are leading your organization into the future!

If you’re leading the charge in IPv6 deployment, you will encounter some challenges along the way. However, you must remember that IPv6 is not a new technology, but a new protocol. It will not bring any new bells or whistles to your Internet infrastructure. It is simply a new language.

“IPv6 is not a new technology, but a new protocol.”

Just imagine that your nation is 100% English-speaking, and overnight you need to ensure that your nation can now speak Swahili. In comparing the two languages, there is no common structure in the syntax. Nor are they equals from a semantic perspective.

Learning the language of IPv6 is like an English-speaking nation trying to learn Swahili. You and your team must review and analyze all components within your network, such as equipment, business supporting systems (BSS), operating supporting systems (OSS) and processes. This will help you identify where you speak English today so you can understand where you will need to speak Swahili tomorrow. Ultimately, you need to ensure that you can speak this new language beyond the borders of your organization.

Building the Business Case for IPv6

Building a business case to obtain funding for your multi-year IPv6 project does not follow the same path as building a business case for other technologies. Usually, a business case for a new technology will take into account the costs of developing and implementing the new technology and weigh those against the revenue that it will generate. If the return on investment is acceptable, then you will receive funding to complete the project.

IPv6 does not bring a new feature or service into the fold. The justification lies in the simple truth that if you do not learn the new language and ensure that it is prevalent throughout your corporate structure, your Internet service will cease to exist. Thus, the pressure lies in retaining the status quo or going the route of the dinosaur.

What about you? What are your thoughts on overcoming IPv6 challenges and building a business case? Feel free to share your comments below.