ormation needs to be properly sorted based on device types. The data representation should be user friendly with the use of maps, drawing, and symbols wherever required. The inventory data repre- sented must support different views, like a physical view showing where a par- ticular device is placed (location) in the chassis, a hierarchical view that can be browsed down to get the attributes of individual elements or a service view where the elements are grouped based on services that are running/installed/ offered on the elements. There should be built-in libraries of maps, locations, floor drawings, and network object symbols available in the inventory man- agement system. This makes it easy to feed and represent data. In short, a proper use of text and graphics is expected in representing inventory data. Distributed architecture: Telecom inventory of the service/equipment pro- vider may be distributed at different geographical locations. The inventory management system should adopt a distributed architecture in collection of data and updating of data. For data lookup, the inventory management sys- tem should provide a centralized view of all data available to the service/ equipment provider. Assist network design: The network design is dependent to some extent on the available inventory. To realize a service, the supporting network design involves effective use of available resources. Pre-planning based on existing inventory data for an improved network design is also possible. Inventory creation and optimal allocation: The inventory management sys- tem needs to send alerts to add inventory that is scarce and reallocate inven- tory that is released after a service is terminated, thus creating inventory for allocation. Powerful and proven inventory algorithms need to be used to design and allocate network components. Proper allocation ensures rapid and accurate service delivery. Network maintenance and restoration is performed by some inventory man- agement systems to maintain the operational integrity of the ne