Telecommunications numbering is a strong element in network QoS because it pro vides 'look and feel' and forms part of the user interface. Numbering volatility can inflict great user cost. In this chapter, the principal design factors, a few case studies and future directions were explored. Components of the billing process for providing telecommunications services may be grouped under usage capture (with emphasis on accuracy), accurate inventory management, mediation function (preparation of network usage data into billable information), rating and charging, and invoice production. Accurate billing and presenting this to the customer in an acceptable and pleasing format is one of the dimensions of QoS in telecommunications. This chapter dwells on the key issues and addressing of these issues.

Inspec keywords: quality management; quality of service; telecommunication network management; invoicing; telecommunication services; inventory management

Other keywords: telecommunication services; telecommunication numbering; user interface; mediation function; telecommunication billing process; telecommunication quality of service management; network QoS; inventory management

Subjects: Network management