Challenges of specifying and implementing a Q3 network management interface in a GSM network

The telecommunications management network (TMN) philosophy for management of modern complex telecommunications systems specifies the use of a Q3 interface based on open systems interconnection (OSI) standards, for exchange of network management information. The paper focuses on the challenges of implementing Q3 technology for the GSM system. Simplification of the day to day operation of their network has led many operators to look for a network management solution that can integrate all their diverse equipment and allow them to take advantage of the economic benefits of GSM technology. This will generally result in the operator selecting a centralised management system to coordinate the activities of the various subsystems. The key to being able to integrate the operations and maintenance (O&M) activities is the availability of suitable interfaces for the exchange of management information between the different systems