The creation and early implementation of a high speed fiber optic network for a university health sciences center

In late 1989 the University of Missouri Health Sciences Center began the process of creating an extensive fiber optic network throughout its facilities, with the intent to provide networked computer access to anyone in the Center desiring such access, regardless of geographic location or organizational affiliation. A committee representing all disciplines within the Center produced and, in conjunction with independent consultants, approved a comprehensive design for the network. Installation of network backbone components commenced in the second half of 1990 and was completed in early 1991. As the network entered its initial phases of operation, the first realities of this important new resource began to manifest themselves as enhanced functional capacity in the Health Sciences Center. This paper describes the development of the network, with emphasis on its design criteria, installation, early operation, and management. Also included are discussions on its organizational impact and its evolving significance as a medical community resource.