that contain delivery and error checking information necessary for traversing a network. IP was developed as a "best effort" technology capable of using many network routes in case of disaster. As such, however, only some implementations of IP incorporate QoS mechanisms. Glossary Internet Service Provider (ISPs): An IIC whose primary focus is to offer Internet access services. Interactive Voice Response (IVR): The systems used to automate telephony- based customer care applications. For example, the recorded voice that asks one to enter a credit card number or select from a menu of choices in hopes of routing the caller properly. Inventory management systems: The category of OSSs responsible for tracking and managing an IICs network or service assets and capabilities. Java 2 Platform, Enterprise Edition - J2EE: J2EE defines the standard for developing multi-tier enterprise applications. J2EE simplifies enterprise applications by basing them on standardized, modular components, by providing a complete set of services to those components. Jeopardy management routines: Processes often configured into OSS packages that manage rules for handling jeopardy situations. Jeopardy situations arise when an IIC is in danger of failing to meet a customer commitment, such as fulfilling a request for added facility circuits. Latency: The inherent delay associated with traffic traversing a network. Latency generally becomes a problem if time intervals become too great and interrupt real-time services such as videoconferences or streaming media. LEC interconnection: Mandated by the Telecommunications Act of 1996, LEC interconnection includes the processes and technologies IICs use to interface with incumbents to access OSS functions such as pre-ordering, ordering, provisioning and trouble ticketing. Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP): A security overlay technology often applied to IP networks, which are not inherently secure. LDAP uses hierarchical directories to manage usage permissions. Line Information Database (LIDB)