.: Revised Assessment #1

(Original Assessment)
Problem-solving scenario for Lesson 7

You are the network administrator for Widgets, Inc, a small manufacturing firm with a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory-based LAN network housed in 2-story building.  Your network is configured with one domain, widgets.com.  There are three file servers on your network:  FILESRV1, FILESRV2, and FILESVR3.  There are approximately 100 network users that use these file servers to store and access network data.  Lately, users have been complaining that they are having difficulty finding resources on the network.  Users have pointed out that the share names of the folders frequently change, which creates significant inconvenience and is diminishing productivity as they search to find the resources they need.  You need to implement a better method for sharing resources.  At the same time, the company has become increasing concerned about security, requiring that your solution also address these security concerns.  Write a memo outlining the steps you will take to achieve these goals.

(Revised Assessment)
Problem-solving scenario for Lesson 7

You and your lab partner are the information systems team for Widgets, Inc, a small manufacturing firm with a Windows Server 2003 Active Directory- based LAN network housed in 2-story building.  Your network is configured with one domain, widgets.com.  There are three file servers on your network:  FILESRV1, FILESRV2, and FILESVR3.  There are approximately 100 network users that use these file servers to store and access network data.  Lately, users have been complaining that they are having difficulty finding resources on the network.  Users have pointed out that the share names of the folders and printers frequently change, which creates significant inconvenience and is diminishing productivity as they search to find the resources they need.  You need to implement a better method for sharing resources.  At the same time, the company has become increasing concerned about security, requiring that your solution also address these security concerns.  As the information systems team you have been instructed to prepare an analysis of the current situation using troubleshooting skills to identify the problem(s) and design a solution plan.  Your analysis and solution proposal will be presented to the company’s officers at their next meeting in two weeks.  At that time you will present them with a written report of your analysis of the problem and a presentation of your recommended solution.  Your proposal should include any charts and/or drawings, case studies or resource materials that will help explain your plan of action.  You have the liberty to restructure the network as you see fit as long as it resolves the current problems and addresses the security concerns. 

.: Revised Assessment #1 Rubric

Lesson 7 Problem-Solving Scenario – RUBRIC

Written Paper:

Introduction (10 points)

1. Introduction is engaging enough to induce further reading.

2. Introduction identifies the problem, its scope and the constraints of the solution.

3. Introduction provides a strong foundation for the body of the paper.

Content (20 points)

1. Content provides smooth continuation of the Introduction

2. Content shows a thoughtful, in-depth analysis of the problem.

3. Content shows the student’s understanding of how network resources are published in Active Directory and those factors that contribute to its functionality.

4. The analysis is well organized and applies a progressive process of troubleshooting.

5. Relevant information provides convincing evidence to support recommendation.

6. Recommendation addresses both the problem of locating resources on the network and the security concerns.

7. Content supports information with quotes from resources, graphics, and/or case studies.

8. Content consistently weaves commentary and fact.

Conclusion (10 points)

1. Clearly defined conclusion is succinct and precise.

2. Author clearly relates evidence from analysis to reason.

3. Recommendation is reinforced with closing arguments.

4. Well developed and persuasive concluding strategy.

Mechanics (10 points)

1. Demonstrates excellent use of diction, grammar and spelling.

2. Demonstrates excellent use of sentence structure and punctuation.

3. Readability – Paper was interesting to read and presented content in an easy to follow flow of thought.

Presentation:

Oral Presentation (30 Points)

1. Opening comments captured and engaged the listener.

2. Followed clear lines of thought that developed the recommendation.

3. Projected a strong synthesis of information regarding content.

4. Closing comments were clear, succinct, and persuasive.

Visual Presentation (10 Points)

1. Design of each slide follows 6 X 6 rule

2. Slides provided additional factual support to the oral presentation

3. Slide transitions flow seamlessly with oral presentation

4. Presents good mix of fact, graphics, animation, and music that complimented the oral presentation.

Mechanics (10 Points)

1. Compelling choice of words and proper use of grammar.

2. Confident posture (body language and attitude) and excellent eye contact.

3. Authoritative vocal tone and projected voice.

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