ea code and exchange) and reports that summarize the utilization of existing facilities (traffic studies) are the type of information produced by data reduction systems. Simulation/ modeling systems make design recommendations based upon input of detailed telephone usage information. Trouble Reporting This application tracks outages, the response time to those outages and a variety of pertinent statistical data which can prove valuable in terms of evaluating how well your telecommunica- tions vendors are doing. Financial Applications The financial alternatives offered by the various telecommu- nications suppliers have created a need for sophisticated financial management tools. Applications such as financial analyses that provide the capability to look at disparate proposals, lease versus lease/purchase and the returns on investment are a necessity, par- ticularly for the large organization. In addition, basic functions such as accounts payable and bill reconciliation add support to the telecommunications manage- ment responsibilities. Cable Inventory Cable records can quickly become outdated. Failure to keep track of cables and pairs can result in increased expenses in terms of how long it takes technicians to complete work installing new telephones or other telecommunications devices. The key to a successful computer-based telecommunications management system is the integration of each of its parts SO that updating is automatic. For example, a directory system requires The Telecom Handbook & 129 CALL ACCOUNTING & TELEMANAGEMENT SYSTEMS information that relates telephone numbers to organizational entities while a usage cost accounting system needs the same information in order to produce its reports. If this information is independently updated, data inevitably do not agree and there are inconsistencies between directories and cost accounting. Ad Hoc Query Systems Users of large systems have a variety of information needs which may require answers to questions upon demand such as, "What effect will an eight perc