communication

A SuperNet is the implementation of classless inter-domain routing. Classless inter-domain routing changed the way IP addresses are interpreted by replacing the previous generation’s address syntax. Instead of allocating eight-bit address blocks which forced 8, 16 or 24-bit prefixes, it used a technique called variable-length subnet masking, which allows address block allocation on discretionary-length prefixes. A SuperNet is the combining of several contiguous subnetwork addresses into one subnet, much like one area code represents an aggregation of telephone numbers in a geographic area.

SuperNets are used to combine multiple networks into groups, which the router then treats as one big network. Internet service providers use supernetting to segment a TCP/IP network for more effective allocation of IP addresses. An organization containing several LANs, WLANs or VLANs would benefit from this same technique. A SuperNet allows an organization to use components from a public-network infrastructure for its enterprise network, which means the organization no longer has to maintain a private network infrastructure. As such, the burden of maintaining an enterprise network is greatly reduced.

A SuperNet would enhance communication because its not geographically restrictive, so a user may plug his or her device into the Internet from virtually any portal in the world and still be able to use the resources of their private network in a secure and robust manner. Each organizational SuperNet would be assigned a single public web address for its members to contact. After authenticating themselves and accessing the network, they could securely retrieve files and collaborate in real time, from anywhere in the world. Essentially, there would be no difference between the organization’s conference room and an individual’s home office.

A SuperNet expands an organization’s network by combining contiguous IP addresses into a single address. By incorporating components of a public network infrastructure, the organization eliminates the need to maintain a private network infrastructure. The SuperNet enhances communication by providing users’ single-point entry to a specific network from anywhere in the world.

Change affects every aspect of life. Only organizations that take an active approach to change will secure their positions as leaders in the business world. The most formidable obstacle to effective change management is the resistance to change exhibited by employees. Communication is an important aspect of change management. The manager’s open and honest communication inspires trust and mitigates employees’ resistance to change. Failing this, organizational change is an uphill climb.

According to Robert Heller, in his book, Managing Change, resistance to change takes three main forms: misunderstanding, fear and distrust. He warns that the “intensity of negative response will largely depend on the existing degree of trust.” Heller then goes on to stress that managers must “be sure to consult and communicate with everyone as much as possible” before introducing the plan. In fact, managers who held back information discovered that employees’ fear of impending change was worse than the change itself. This fear could easily translate to productivity problems within the organization.

Organizational change will always meet with some resistance. The effective manager will confront potential resistance situations by planning ahead. In order for an employee to be willing to accept change, he or she must understand the need for change. He must also trust the manager to look after his or her best interest. The manager can mitigate an employee’s resistance by providing open and honest communication from the inception of the change. After all, knowledge is power and in a changing organization, the manager who shares that power will likely find a smoother transition to a new corporate culture.