Transparency versus Complexity in Next Generation Networks

Next generation networks (NGN) combine advanced technologies in several layers to a flexible architecture. Very heterogeneously designed fixed-network and mobile services are integrated on a common platform. However, telecommunications engineers are confronted with a growing complexity, which appears in a variety of protocols, interworking network elements and parameters. The interaction of these components significantly influences quality of services, network performance, and reliability. Transparency can be achieved by putting relevant data into immediate relationships. The vertical view on the inter dependencies between the network elements of different layers provides the basis for comprehensive and detailed utilization, failure and cost analysis, as well as network planning and optimization over several layers. Improved transparency enables engineers to be more efficient by making best decisions in limited time