If you would like to have a better idea as to what can be accomplished from a technology standpoint, perform a "GOOGLE SEARCH" on "SysMaster" that is a infrastructure supplier for off the shelf devices that are very robust. as you read you can have a better understanding as to what might be attempted.
If you search to find out the background on Anthony Dibiasi, please ensure that you follow the correct one, the one that graduated from "RIT" with a EE degree as well and lived in Rochester N.Y. at the same time that Gary M. graduated from RIT.
If you get a couple of "Motivated" EE'S that have their background with a great Idea, PULL UP YOUR SOCKS AND PUT ON YOUR TRACK SHOES.
A Pesimist is an Optomist with experience. Hang in there and be supportive.
REGARDS