SENIOR LEVEL

What is your approach to maintaining complete technical documentation?

Sample answer to the question

My approach to maintaining complete technical documentation is to create detailed and organized documentation for every aspect of the network infrastructure. I start by documenting the network design, including diagrams and specifications of all the devices and their configurations. Additionally, I document the IP addressing scheme, VLAN configurations, routing protocols, and security policies. I regularly update the documentation to reflect any changes or upgrades made to the network. This ensures that all team members have access to accurate and up-to-date information, which improves troubleshooting efficiency and enables smooth network operations.

A more solid answer

My approach to maintaining complete technical documentation starts with creating a comprehensive inventory of all network devices, including their make, model, and firmware/version information. I then document the network architecture, including physical and logical diagrams, IP addressing schemes, VLAN configurations, and routing protocols. For each device, I document the configuration details, such as access control lists, firewall rules, and quality of service policies. I also maintain a record of all changes made to the network, including upgrade schedules, firmware updates, and security patches. All documentation is organized in a central repository, easily accessible to the team. Regular reviews and updates are conducted to ensure accuracy and relevancy. This approach promotes knowledge sharing, improves troubleshooting efficiency, and facilitates network scalability.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's approach to maintaining technical documentation. It includes information about creating an inventory, documenting configurations, and organizing information in a central repository. However, it could be improved by providing more details about how the candidate ensures the accuracy of the documentation and how they involve team members in the process.

An exceptional answer

Maintaining complete technical documentation is a vital aspect of my approach as a Senior Network Engineer. To achieve this, I employ a holistic strategy that encompasses several key elements. Firstly, I establish a documentation framework that includes standardized templates and guidelines for different types of documentation, ensuring consistency across the network. Secondly, I collaborate closely with the network operations team and subject matter experts to gather information and insights for documentation purposes. This approach ensures that the documentation reflects the most accurate and up-to-date knowledge. Regular reviews and audits are conducted to identify any gaps or inconsistencies in the documentation. Additionally, I promote a culture of knowledge sharing within the team by organizing training sessions and creating a central repository for documentation. Through this approach, I am able to maintain comprehensive technical documentation that serves as a valuable resource for troubleshooting, network upgrades, and future planning.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates a comprehensive approach to maintaining technical documentation. It includes elements such as establishing a documentation framework, collaborating with team members, conducting regular reviews and audits, and promoting a knowledge-sharing culture. This approach goes beyond the basic and solid answers by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and continuous improvement in documentation practices.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with various documentation templates and guidelines used in network engineering.
Stay updated with industry best practices for network documentation.
Develop strong organizational skills to effectively categorize and manage documentation.
Practice creating accurate and detailed network diagrams.
Seek opportunities to collaborate and gather information from team members for documentation purposes.
Be prepared to share examples of your past experience in creating and maintaining technical documentation.

What interviewers are evaluating

Network infrastructure documentation
Attention to detail
Organization