AM/FM/GIS/CAD and enterprise support systems (ESS) for telecommunications

A number of fundamental changes are taking place in the telecommunication and cable industries. The increased bandwidth of the new networks is transforming the meaning of telecommunication and communication in general. Telecommunication is no longer a voice service between two individuals, and CATV (cable) is no longer just TV. As developing countries grow and open-up their largely ignored rural markets, wireless technologies become a part of the overall telecommunications environment of the future. The formulation of an information management infrastructure to assist engineers (users) and to support the operational and decision support systems within the corporation is needed for success. The author discusses computer aided drafting (CAD), automated mapping and facilities mapping (AM/FM) and geographic information systems (GIS) solutions.