The output that you generally want from this type of monitoring system
is graphs that have clear units along each axis. You can use the graphs to see
what the usage trends are or to notice problems, such as sudden, unexpected
peaks or drops in usage. You can use the graphs to predict when you need
to add capacity of any sort and as an aid in the budget process, which is
discussed in more detail in Chapter 34. A graph is also a convenient form of
documentation to pass up the management chain. A graph clearly illustrates
your point, and your managers will appreciate your having solid data to
support your request for more bandwidth, memory, disk space, or whatever
it is that you need.