Opening the public network to customer access and control

Users of telecommunications services are demanding greater access and control over network facilities. Customer network management systems can help meet this need for customer-owned facilities. However, even private networks usually include facilities and software features provided within the public network. Customer network management requires that the public network be opened to allow more direct customer access and control. In this context, the public network includes both network systems and internal support systems. A number of products have been developed that provide the technical means for customer access and control in specific areas. There is also a need for a coordinated technical and operations strategy to meet all access and control requirements for a wide range of public network customers. The requirements and progress made at US West to develop such a plan are described