> What should I read to get a clue about these things? I think I'd prefer an article or report to a howto or book.

This makes it a clear product request for documentation, a perfect fit. There is really not much more to discuss, your business case or prior research is not really relevant for this.

I don't think the quuestion can be altered to make it viable to 2015 SeverFault. We really prefer answerable questions on actual problems you currently have. Back in 2010 the focus of the site was less clear than today.