Network software quality improvements: a customer view

It is argued that there is an urgent need for software quality and reliability improvement in telecommunications networks. As networks evolve from POTS (plain old telephone service) to more advanced information networks, Bellcore client companies (BCCs) need software which meets their requirements, which is error free, and which is extensible to new functionality in a cost-effective manner. Network elements, network systems, and operations systems interoperability in a multivendor environment is a major concern of the BCCs. Some of the Bellcore software quality improvement initiatives are reviewed and a dialog on the subject is invited