London-listed Dimension Data, a global network and interactive integration services group, is leading a multi-supplier, proof-of-concept and architecture project designed to make it easier for Internet protocol (IP)-based virtual private network (VPN) service providers to manage their services.
The Plug-and-Play IP VPN Management solution is one of several Catalyst projects taking place under the auspices of the TeleManagement (TM) Forum, an international non-profit group of information and communications service providers, software developers, equipment suppliers and systems integrators focused exclusively on management and operations issues.
Initiated by DiData, featuring a complete solution on a plug-and-play platform and utilising multi-vendor commercial off the shelf (COTS) products, it will be demonstrated alongside other Catalyst showcases at TeleManagement World (TMW) in Chicago, from 13 to 16 November.
According to Craig Levieux, marketing director at Dimension Data Service Provider Solutions and leader of the IP VPN Management project, the project combines the strengths of industry leaders in new generation operational systems and software (NGOSS). These include Astracon, Cisco Systems, CrossKeys Systems Corporation, Daleen Technologies, IGS, Portal Software, Sodalia, Telcordia Technologies and Vitria Technology.
The entire project, which is sponsored by Verizon Communications, also involves major players in the network operations systems and software arena, such as AMS, Cap Gemini, Ernst & Young, PricewaterhouseCoopers, CommTech and Hewlett-Packard.
"Through its work programmes and Catalyst projects, the TM Forum and its members develop pragmatic, market-based solutions which help solve problematic issues associated with operations systems and software (OSS) integration and business process automation.
"In the Catalyst showcases, existing and prototype products are linked together to automate key processes and deliver integrated solutions. These demonstrations enable suppliers to test new approaches and ideas in a live environment, while service providers can assess possibilities and provide feedback to suppliers," Levieux explains.
For example, the project will enable vendors, integrators and service providers to measure the time and effort required to produce a plug-and-play solution using COTS products.
The IP VPN Management Catalyst project will be demonstrated using an application service provider service as an example of an appropriate application for a hub-and-spoke VPN.
"In addition to simplifying the management of complex VPNs with evolving configuration requirements, the solution should also enable VPN service providers to reduce their time to market, increase the flexibility of their offerings to adapt to market demands, and allow for predictable service delivery.
"Associated benefits for end-users include the ability to manage their own VPNs via Web-based self-care, improved tracking of real-time SLA conditions and rebates, and rapid deployment of additional services and products," says Levieux.
James Warner, COO, TeleManagement Forum, says the forum is delighted that companies in the IP VPN Management Catalyst Project are addressing the challenges of VPN management.
"As we move forward with our New Generation OSS initiative, it is important that we show how systems integrators and vendors can leverage TM Forum NGOSS principles to integrate diverse hardware and software technologies in a flexible and extensible way," Warner concludes.
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