The previous modules addressed the architecture and the theory of the AIN. This section will discuss various aspects of service creation—the tool that builds the representation of the call flow for each individual customer. Many AIN software vendors have paired service creation software with state-of-the-art computer graphics software to eliminate the need for traditional programming methods. Through the use of menu-driven software, services are created by inputting various service parameters.

Building-Block Approach

Figure 12 provides an example of a building-block approach to creating AIN services. Play announcement, collect digits, call routing, and number translation building blocks are shown here. The SSP has the ability to play announcement and collect digits, as does the IP. Routing the call is an SSP function, and number translation is an SCP capability. By arranging these four capabilities or building blocks in various combinations, services such as 800 service with interactive dialing, outgoing call screening, and area number calling can be created.

Figure 12. AIN Service Example: Building-Block Approach

Service Creation Template

Figure 13 represents what a service creation template might look like. For an outgoing call screening service, the service begins with the customer's telephone number. This example allows the customer to screen 900 numbers, while still having the ability to override 900 screening by entering a PIN. Except for 703-974-1234, all non-900 calls are processed without screening.

Figure 13. AIN Service Example: Service Creation Template

Digit Extension Dialing Service

A four-digit extension dialing service is displayed in Figure 14. It allows for abbreviated dialing beyond central-office (CO) boundaries. If an employee at location 1 wants to call an employee at location 2 by dialing the extension number 111, 2111 would be dialed. Although 2111 is not a number that a switching system can use to route the call, a customized dialing plan trigger is encountered after 2111 is dialed and a query is sent to the SCP. Service logic at the SCP uses the 2111 number to determine the real telephone number of the called party.

Figure 14. AIN Service Example: Digit Extension Dialing Service

Disaster Recover Service

Figure 15 illustrates a disaster recovery service. This service allows businesses to have calls routed to one or more alternate locations based on customer service logic at the SCP. Calls come into the switching system served by the normal location. After triggering, communication with the SCP occurs. Based on the service logic, the call could be either routed to the normal business location or to one or more alternate business locations.

Figure 15. Disaster Recovery Service

Area Number Calling Service

An area number calling (ANC) service is shown in Figure 16. This service is useful for companies or businesses that want to advertise one telephone number but want their customer's calls routed to the nearest or most convenient business location. The SCP service logic and data (e.g., zip codes) are used to make a match between the calling party's telephone number and geographic location. The call is then routed to the company or business location that is closest to or most convenient for the calling party.

Figure 16. Area Number Calling (ANC) Service

Do-Not-Disturb Service

Finally, Figure 17 displays a do-not-disturb service. This is a service in which the Smith family has terminating screening service logic at the SCP. Whenever someone calls them, the service logic determines whether the call should be routed to the Smith's telephone or an announcement should be played. In this particular case, a telemarketer calls the Smith family. The SCP tells the switching system to route the telemarketer to an announcement.

Figure 17. Do-Not-Disturb Service

The customers' SCP service logic may also contain a list of numbers that they want to get through while do not disturb is active. In that case, if the SCP finds a match between the calling party number and a number on the list, the call is routed to the Smith family.