Irrespective of what you call them, these interface products provide the translation needed for one system to talk to another. This function is necessary because data is stored in different formats, and different protocols have evolved for communications between parts of each system. Translation may be necessary even when two systems are performing similar functions. For example, one element manager may use SNMP to communicate, while another may be based on TL1. Both need data, such as customer names and addresses, that is stored in yet another system.
Adapters also provide an interface between legacy systems and new applications.
Since order entry also may be linked to equipment provisioning, this portal may be used by an operator s customers for service upgrades. Of course, an adapter link to the billing system ensures corresponding new revenue flow from the upgrade. What this means to cable technicians is that life is becoming both easier and more difficult. The easy part is that systems integration often provides a set of new tools that aid troubleshooting by delivering more complete information about a customer s service subscription, including historical trends. The hard part comes with specialization for example, RF tech, data tech or telephony tech is no longer adequate.