Extending TMN to the customer access

End user requirements include an increase in the number of sophisticated services, increasing service mix, responsiveness of the network, lower/competitive prices, the provision of a high quality service and ultimate control of bandwidth. In addition to providing these requirements, the operator needs to provide an efficient network with increased revenue opportunities in order to survive in a competitive environment. Modernisation of the access network includes the introduction of new technology and access media. End to end management of a service is one of the most important and complex areas in achieving the above objectives. The authors discuss the influence of network modernisation on the management structure, describe management platforms, and discuss the importance of standardised open interfaces. The implementation aspects of access management are also discussed