provider side, similar concerns and processes exist. The governing approach is either in a tariff or some form of supply agreement. If not explicitly mentioned or called out, then the alter- nate approach is to use applicable ANSI, IEEE, IETF, ITU, or other applicable recommendations. The process and focus of the effort should be structured around the end-to-end service model block diagram. Initial concern is to make sure connectivity exists by exam- ining and testing the underlying circuit or facility. Validating or accepting a new circuit on an existing facility is less complicated but riskier than accepting a new facility. Regardless, the process is fairly simple and very similar. If the circuit or facility is intra-LATA (local), only one provider is involved. If it is inter-LATA (long-distance), three service providers are involved: two local exchange carriers and one inter-exchange carrier. If the service is international, the international portion will involve two more physical pieces and a local exchange carrier at the far end. Circuit acceptance in any case involves a fairly simple process and requires relatively simple test equipment. When the service pro- vider informs you that it is ready for acceptance, simply connect the equipment, loop back the circuit at the far end, and initiate a bit error rate performance test for at least 48 hours-preferably 72 hours. The circuit should perform error free. If there are errors, turn it back over to the provider and ask them to fix it. Once the circuit or facility is accepted, then remove the bit error rate test equipment and replace it with the operational equipment (multi- plexer, server, or whatever) and begin operational tests with the complete system. MANAGING COST OF EQUIPMENT FACILITIES AND SERVICES Managing cost of equipment, facilities, and services is a critical and ongoing part of managing communications assets and expenses. Communications cost is and has been a growing expense since the first telephone line was installed in a business. Over a relative