The SMS is an off-line data base manager which does not handle traffic. It is essential for the following situations:
The SMS, based on commercial Unix systems, supports the data base and has all management applications necessary to keep the service running. For example, an essential feature is to guarantee correctness of service instructions which are replicated on several SCPs in load-sharing mode.
Other features guarantee that commands which would damage service are not executed.
The SMP handles the dial-in lines which customers use to modify their configurations. Certain simple operations such as access to the central voice messaging service can be done with the keypad of a DTMF telephone. More complex operations require a terminal. The customer dialog with the SMP is a simple, user-friendly menu-driven interface similar to the one implemented for centrex services.
The customer can only make a limited set of changes: for example, to add a new office or add lines to an existing office, Administration help is needed.
There are extensive integrity checks on the modifications before they are inserted in the SCP.
An important issue with customer access is security. Passwords and callback routines are provided to avoid unathorized access. In addition, real-time surveillance features are provided so that Administration knows who is accessing the system.
The SMP has a complete package of management reports and collects traffic data from the SCP. These data can be postprocessed as desired either in the SMS or on another computer. For example, the calls to a Green Number client could be collected on a daily basis and reported by originating exchange, holding time, waiting time, distribution during the day, and so forth. These reports are a valuable marketing tool for the client and a new revenue opportunity for the Administration.
Italtel Societa' Italiana Telecomunicazioni Spa
Claudio Chiarenza, BUCT BPM
Comments to author:Claudio.Chiarenza@settimo.italtel.it
Contact for Information: Claudio Chiarenza - BUCT BPM
All contents copyright (C) 1995.Italtel S.p.a. All rights reserved. Revised: August 30, 1995