Patent ID: 9224108
Filing Date: 2015-12-29
Classification: G06Q,H04L

Abstract:
1. A method for comparing a first cost index and a second cost index in a communication network, the method comprising: obtaining, via a processor, a plurality of first cost factors associated with a first set of network elements; obtaining, via the processor, a plurality of second cost factors associated with a second set of network elements; determining, via the processor, the first cost index based on the plurality of first cost factors associated with the first set of network elements of a first type of network of the communication network; determining, via the processor, the second cost index based on the plurality of second cost factors associated with the second set of network elements of a second type of network of the communication network, wherein the first type of network and the second type of network are different and the communication network includes both the first set of network elements of the first type of network and the second set of network elements of the second type of network; and comparing, via the processor, the first cost index to the second cost index for determining a point in time when a service provider will minimize new investment in the first set of network elements, wherein at the point of time, the service provider in minimizing the new investment will not replace a network element of the first type of network or will not purchase a new network element of the first type of network.