OSS Connect decreases order cycle time
by automating the entire process from service order provisioning
to transport to information access. Utilizing this system
has proven to speed turn-up time by as much as sixty percent.
Following are the components and features
of OSS Connect:
Service Order Provisioning
Flexible order entry
OSS Connect can be used as a stand-alone
order entry system or with existing order systems. Its
thin client format provides for remote access by trading
partners, ease of use and a seamless application for your
entire order cycle.
User-friendly interface
The interface is designed in a logical, ASOG standard
layout and is very easy to use. Adoption rate among end
users is quick, minimizing training time and enabling
broad acceptance within your organization.
Easily make least-cost choices
OSS Connect’s business
rules can be utilized to empower users to choose the proper
carrier based on cost or other criteria—providing
a basis for enormous cost savings.
Convergent/flow-through provisioning
OSS Connect updates its provisioning system with workflow
dates and service order and order response data. It provides
flow through provisioning between existing orders entry
and engineering systems and trading partners. The system
automatically generates service requests when integrated
with third-party provisioning and/or order systems.
Form definitions are stored on the
server in XML and delivered via a web service, allowing
immediate zero-touch distribution of new forms, rules
and modifications.
Transport
Integration services
OSS Connect integrates with CTGi’s Interactive Agent
software, allowing for real time transport while supporting
the latest in secure inter-connection standards. If there
is a need to send a fax, the system populates your trading
partner’s forms with your data - actually translating
the fax image to match your trading partner’s paperwork.
OSS Connect also communicates with e-bonded, email and
paper trading partners, automatically selecting the proper
communications medium and making the required translations.
OSS Connect may be integrated via
standard procedural or object-oriented interfaces over
a variety of transport protocols to permit integration
with traditional and contemporary systems. OSS Connect
also integrates with provisioning platforms to eliminate
multiple database re-keying.
Automated receipt
OSS Connect will automatically return the service provider’s
reply to interconnected systems. If there is an identified
error, the system will alert you so that the error can
be quickly addressed.
Information Access
Easily access electronic order
history
All documentation is stored electronically within the
system for convenience of recall. All open service orders
can be quickly viewed and easily searched for viewing
and editing as needed. As a turnkey or ASP solution, order
data can be kept online for as long as you choose. Complete
change history is maintained for every service order field.
Search capabilities
OSS Connect automatically stores electronic copies of
all service order transactions, which can be quickly retrieved
based on any combination of fields in the service order.
This results in simplified order retrieval and provides
a convenient system for audit and problem resolution.
Search engine capabilities include combined information
from OSS Connect and CMP (where applicable).
Web forms pages
The OSS Connect framework is designed to allow you to
scale your web application from one computer with a single
processor to a multi-processor web network. It supports
intranet browsing of ASRs, LSRs, FOCs and DLRs for company-wide
distribution.
Fax Log
The fax log allows users to search by PON or date sent.
Status of the service orders can be updated as the fax
status changes.
Architecture
Flexibility
OSS Connect has been designed to grow with the ever increasing
complexity of the interconnect environment. OSS Connect
uses an open, standards-based architecture built in XML,
and fully supports automated provisioning, only flagging
exceptions for human attention.
Data driven architecture
The internal forms are defined by metadata, which allows
the service provider to dynamically define the interfaces
without needing to alter the source code of the OSS Connect
product. Clients include Windows NT Workstation, 98, ME,
2000, XP and 2003.
Multi-tiered database
The system uses multi-tiered client server architecture.
Some parts of the application run on your server and some
on the end users’ workstations. This creates increased
processing speed by using the shared resources of hundreds
of computers.
The Server
The database consists of simplified XML structures housed
in an XML aware database (SQL Server 2000). This database
is installed and modified via the use of SQL. The data
transfer wizard (DTS) is utilized to port setup and table
information. Security and network settings are matched
to your company’s guidelines.
Thin Client
The OSS Connect client runs inside a browser window, simplifying
upgrades while maximizing compatibility among varied desktop
operating systems. OSS Connect fully supports zero touch
installation.
Standards
OSS Connect supports relevant industry standards and remains
current with Access Services Ordering Guidelines (ASOG)
and Local Services Ordering Guidelines (LSOG), compliant
with Bellcore SR-STS-471041 Title Access Service Request
Mechanized Interface Specifications.
New Formats
The CTGi Form Editor allows fast adaptation to new standards,
with customizable templates for common Service Orders.
OSS Connect is continually updated with the most current
ASOG and LSOG standards and industry formats.
Services
Our service does not end with
implementation. Professional services are available to ensure
all users have a thorough understanding of OSS Connect’s
functionality. Formalized training is available for the
following:
- System administrators
- Administrators
- End users
- End user trainers, including “train
the trainer” sessions
- Product support
- Hardware maintenance and support
Learn more today
Contact Coastal Technologies Group, Inc. today to learn
how OSS Connect can help you manage your interconnect requests
more quickly and accurately. For more information, visit
www.CTGi.biz
or call (800) 448-2835.
