The first step in the development process is to define a clear set of business requirements that a project needs to meet. In building OSS/BSS systems, the TM Forum supplies a variety or resources to help make business requirements definition a straightforward process.

The TM Forum has two kinds of tools for this area:

1. Common Language: Work such as the Enhanced Telecom Operations Map (eTOM), Shared Information/Data Model (SID), and Telecom Application Map (TAM) which are part of the NGOSS framework provide a common language for applications, processes and information. Using these tools enables service providers, software vendors and system integrators to have a common set of terminology and common understanding of information to be used in building solutions right from the start of a project.
   • eTOM – NGOSS business process map (link to eTOM page)
   • SID – NGOSS Shared Information/Data Model (link to SID page)
   • TAM – NGOSS Application Map (link to TAM page)
2. Business Solution Guidelines: Works such as the SLA Handbook and the Revenue Assurance Guidebook step you through what it means to have a good solution for their respective business areas.
   • SLA Handbook – Multi-volume guidebook on SLAs for business and development managers
   • Revenue Assurance -- Guidebook defining revenue assurance best practices
   • Business Process Management Catalysts – defining how to use business process management to optimize business processes

Learn more about using NGOSS:

• NGOSS Overview
• NGOSS Developers Toolkit
• Pre-defined NGOSS Compliant Interfaces

Datasheets

• NGOSS
• SID
• eTOM
• TAM