Process design

Written on 4:15 PM by ooe

Like any large network operator, BT has a large number of complex processes and systems which govern the operation of its access network.

However, it is a starting point from which to determine what would need to be modified. Typical examples of these changes include:

• how appointments are made with the end-user for equipment installation by BT;

• how faults are determined and resolved (that is, whether a fault is in the LLU operator's service area or on the network provided by BT);

• what to do if the end-user contacts BT directly rather than contacting the LLU operator.

These and similar issues were discussed at several OPF meetings which resulted in the interface between BT and the LLU operator being defined. Although this work was completed in April 2000, industry and Oftel requested numerous changes resulting in major reviews. A simplified end-to-end description of the unbundling process is shown below.

• Operator registers for LLU service with BT.

• LLU operator orders points of presence (collocation or distant location).

• BT or contractor builds points of presence.

• LLU operator installs equipment.

• LLU operator requests unbundled loop.

• BT provides unbundled loop.

• LLU operator provides service.

• LLU operator reports faults to BT.

• BT investigates problems.

A number of activities such as billing and field force control are inherent in these steps – threads running through every major process. Add to this the number of scenarios identified for unbundling (over 100) and the scale and complexity of the operational environment starts to be seen.