The scenario (pre-N2030 programme):  

There was a business need to deliver a new tool to manage the University network, we previously outsourced this.

What we want to achieve:

• Deliver a modern and reliable network monitoring and management tool for in-house use. The tool uses AI and allows ITS to keep the University’s network running efficiently.
• Deliver training and appoint champions to ensure the tool is optimised and managed well.

This project has delivered:

• Agreed on the University’s requirements for a new toolset based on functionality, cost and future scalability by working with key ITS teams.

In future the project will deliver: 

• Test the toolset in a safe environment before rolling it out fully by October 2025.
• Train our ITS staff to use the new tool confidently. 

What difference will this make?

• Reduced tickets to service desk thanks to AI-supported technology predicting outages and issues with the network before they happen.
• The new system will help ITS understand how the University network is used, so we can plan improvements more effectively. 

The scenario (pre-N2030 programme): 

The Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), one of the University’s flagship buildings, used by thousands of students, staff and visitors each year, had frequent Wi-Fi issues and an outdated network setup that didn’t meet modern performance standards.

What we want to achieve: 

Deliver a high-quality, secure, and future-ready network that supports teaching, research, and day-to-day operations at AMBS.

This project has delivered: 

Completed Phase 1 and Phase 2 of Wi-Fi upgrade, replacing and transforming access points (APs) throughout the building to improve coverage and performance.

In future the project will deliver: 

Continue with Phases 1 and 2 of the Local Area network (LAN) upgrade to roll out the new policy-based LAN and improve wired network performance and security.

What difference will this make: 

A fit for purpose Wi-Fi service within AMBS, one that is available in all parts of the building, is reliable, consistent, responsive and provides a seamless service for all colleagues, students and visitors. 

The scenario (pre-N2030 programme): 

There is a business need to change how the University’s network is managed, by creating a new Target Operating Model (TOM) to ensure the efficient and effective running of our network. This also gives us an opportunity to strengthen our in-house expertise and take full ownership of network services once our managed service contract is closed.

What we want to achieve:

• We want to provide a clear picture of what the key components are when it comes to network provision and outline what the University target state should be in these areas.
• The project will deliver a number of recommendations as to how we can reach this target state based on our current service offering, as well as a roadmap for delivering these recommendations.
• Finally, we'll make sure that a seamless transition of activities and skills is made once the managed service contract is closed to ensure there is no impact on University network users.

Our key aims include: 

• Eliminating single points of dependency.
• Bringing all network expertise in-house.
• Upskilling and training our people.
• Closing service and capability gaps.

This project has delivered:

• We have developed the Target Operating Model document which encompasses all the considerations required for providing effective recommendations to the network team.
• We have provided a baseline for current network service activity and identified the initial target state of network provision.
• We have also developed a gap analysis plan to identify the areas that we will need to address to ensure that there is a smooth transition into the new operating model.

In future the project will deliver:

We will finalise the recommendations provided within the Target Operating Model. We will also identify the full list of gaps created within the University network service provision and provide a full plan to address these gaps to the network team.

What difference will this make:

• A network team that is high-performing with the correct tools and training to do their best work.
• A network that is high-performing thanks to its people, allowing the university to continue its industry and world-leading work.

In the short term there should be no impact on network users. In the long-term, as the recommendations are acted upon, the provision of user facing network activity is enhanced. 

What we want to achieve: 

To ensure the reliability, resilience and security of the University network. 

This project has delivered: 

We’ve completed the selection process for both the hardware solution and our external partner, who will help deliver it. Planning sessions are now underway to prepare for the technical rollout.

In future the project will deliver:  

We will begin installing the new hardware, and this work will also create new training opportunities for our in-house ITS network team to build expertise with the new solution.

What difference will this make: 

While staff and students won’t notice any immediate changes, this work is crucial to ensuring the network continues to run smoothly, safely, and without unexpected failures wherever possible. 

The scenario (pre-N2030 programme): 

Wi-Fi in Whitworth Park halls was patchy and unreliable.

What we want to achieve: 

• To upgrade both the Wi-Fi and wired network at Whitworth Park (which consists of Aberdeen House, Acomb House, Burleigh House, Derby House, Dilworth House, Garstang, Leamington House, Thorncliffe House and Grove House) to deliver a reliable, fast, and seamless Wi-Fi coverage throughout all student bedrooms and communal areas, including support for newer 6GHz devices.
• Transforming AP switches across the entire site to Hospitality APs.

This project has delivered: 

We’ve completed surveys, designed the new network, and planned the rollout.

In future the project will deliver: 

Phase 1 is in progress which involves installation of new Wi-Fi access points (APs) and switches will take place over July/August 2025, with support in place for students arriving in September.

What difference will this make: 

Fantastic WiFi service that is future-proof and strong for residents supporting them in their studies and downtime. 

What we want to achieve:  

Replacing the hardware to minimise security issues, potential for outages and making the network more responsive.

This project has delivered:

 2 x new core switches have been installed ready for the full migrations.

In future the project will deliver:  

Move all services over two weekends from the existing cores onto the new core switches.

What difference will this make:  

Improved security, minimising outages, improves responsiveness to evolving business demands. 

Project is paused and due to commence in September 2025.

Project is paused and due to commence in 2026.

Project is paused and due to commence in 2026.

The present scenario: 

What the project will deliver: 

What difference will this make?