How should I architect my network?

Customer Question: What is the best practice for when to create a new mailbox or use an existing mailbox? 

Answer: How to architect your network is an internal business decision you and your team will need to make. However, here are some points to consider when making your decision.

As the only VAN uniquely built for ISVs and Service Providers, ECGrid provides unique options for companies to set up their network. You are initially provided with a Root level and then able to create additional Mailboxes under the Root. Each mailbox can have the data path go to a connection at the Root level or to a connection at the mailbox level. The data path can be updated on the Details page of each mailbox.

This allows you to choose whether you want a single connection for your network or individual connections for your network. Regardless of the data path, all data for each mailbox will appear on that mailbox when running reports or looking for Transactions.

Configure a single connection at the Root level without additional Mailboxes

Configure a single connection at the Root level with separate mailboxes for each customer or segment

Configure a unique connection on each mailbox

Configure a hybrid of a connection at the root and unique connections on some individual mailboxes

How you choose to architect your network is a business decision you will make based on your business model, the needs of your customers, and whether you're providing value-add services for all or some of your customers.