Integrating Legacy Apps into NGN/IMS
NGN/IMS represents a new age in telecom networks that promises the delivery of robust multimedia services across diverse networks. However this promise is being stalled by the problem of creating feature parity between legacy networks and the new NGN/IMS network. Today NGN/IMS networks have only the potential of being more feature rich than their legacy predecessors. The reality is that NGN/IMS networks are behind the legacy network when comparing table stakes applications like least cost routing, calling card, and pre-paid. It doesn’t take a big leap of faith to understand why subscribers have not jumped into NGN/IMS. Subscribers are simply not willing to give up features to move into NGN/IMS on potential alone. They need sustenance in the form of feature parity as well as potential to compel them to move. That’s why NGN/IMS has remained a network design and not an implementation. While NGN/IMS has done an excellent job of creating a foundation on which new feature rich applications can be built, the revenue-generating, table-stakes applications of the legacy network are overlooked.
Purpose-Built Service Broker Solution
The AppTrigger Service Broker hosts legacy applications in the NGN/IMS network. The Service Broker is capable of talking to the CSCF with SIP-ISC, and DIAMETER / MAP to the HSS, allowing legacy applications to now join the application layer of the NGN/IMS network and reap the benefits of this membership. Once a part of the application layer, legacy applications can be included in application mash-ups, and easily integrate with the back office systems of the NGN/IMS network. In addition, the build-up of the PSTN gateway and the legacy core network is avoided because the legacy applications are directly accessible by the NGN/IMS subscriber base.
