The Board Room: Call Generation v. Call Simulation

Capabilities	Simulated	PAT (Intelligent Call Generation)
Testing Translations	These systems completely test the translations tables against common parameters of expected results and generate reports that include all possible errors including many that are not revenue impacting. The final analysis of this data may include actually generating calls to verify results and can take several weeks or months to conclude.	This system is capable of completely testing the translations tables, but is typically focused to test the highest percentage of revenue producing lines. Customers using this system are finding many of their revenue impacting errors with tests of 400 � 1500 calls per line class code or rate center. The final analysis of this data usually takes a couple of days.
Test connections to other networks	Most simulated systems do not connect to external networks	PAT allows you to verify the connections and routing to a different carrier. If your customer cannot reach another network, to them it is your fault since you provide them dial tone. In some instances, the end office does not always return the correct answer supervision which can affect the way the call is billed.
Test CIC activations	Most simulated systems do not connect to external networks	As new CICs are activated in a switch, a call generation system can be used as a remote dialer and recorder to verify the new CICs are activated.
Identify Post Dial Delay	Most simulated systems do not connect to external networks	In the cut throat market of providing international service, post dial delay is an important factor in identifying quality of service. Call through testing systems can be used to identify the post dial delay.
Verify Translations Data from a different source	When the translations tables are verified they are often validated using the same source of information as was used to populate them in the first place. In this situation a company will not be able to identify if the information was correct to begin with.	Since the PAT System is more often used for complete revenue assurance testing, the dialing areas and other relevant information will be collected from the financial or billing organizations rather than the network organization. This process validates the initial data used to populate the switch and verifies that all organizations are in agreement.
Test the billing system	Varies: Most call simulation products do not analyze the final bill.	PAT creates a controlled environment therefore call scripts can be designed to specifically test the billing system. The records can be followed to the final bill for any originating calls.
Cost	Starts at $20,000+/switch	Starts under $11,000/switch for hardware and software combined.
Package	Varies: Frequently billed as service bureau ($20,000+/switch/test) or as volume sales.	For approximately $11,000/switch you are up and running. Software resides with customer. Test as often as you want from any PC in your WAN.