GRIC extends IP reach: New platform ties together operations support systems for IP carriers

Global Reach Internet Connection Communications last week unveiled a new software platform that lets service providers offer multiple Internet protocol services to one account while producing a single bill.

The convergent services platform is geared specifically for services such as roaming, fax and phone. The company also released an updated version of its billing and provisioning system. GRICbilling 3.0 will be offered in two configurations. A standard version, GRICbilling Framework, is available immediately. GRICbilling SDK, which lets Internet service providers and third-party systems integrators create or modify service types and other billing system aspects, will be released early next year.

"Today in IP telephony you have two kinds of standards, H.323 and a set of standards for things like authentication and settlements," said Hong Chen, chairman and CEO of GRIC. "What GRIC is trying to do is build a convergent platform that combines all the operations."

GRIC CSP consists of five components:

* An authentication server.

* A settlement module, which performs the function of a clearinghouse.

* A router.

* A billing and customer care package.

* The GRIC-ready protocol, a programming interface that lets vendors develop applications for the GRIC network.

Using GRIC CSP, service providers can create a single back-office system that handles multiple IP-based services. They also can share network resources with other service providers using GRIC's settlement, clearinghouse and micropayment capabilities.

GRIC also is pushing CSP as a turnkey solution for small carriers and Internet telephony service providers.

Several vendors, including Cisco Systems, Lucent Technologies, Siemens Information and Communication Networks Inc. and Open Port Technology, already have expressed support for certain portions of CSP. Lucent, which is incorporating GRICphone application protocol interfaces into its next version of the PacketStart Internet telephony system, also is evaluating the billing and settlement elements of GRIC's offering, said Chris Schoettle, vice president of IP communications for Lucent.

"The first step is just an extension of what we're already doing," he said. "They're definitely on the leading edge of the settlements and clearinghouse processes."

For many vendors, the advantage of aligning with GRIC comes down to having access to its 400 members.

"The service provider partners are very appealing if you're a vendor trying to make money today," said Hilary Mine, executive vice president at Probe Research. "You don't have to go develop all those channels."