Intelligent Network : Introduction

IN has become one of the most critical technologies in the information industry because of its promise of quick service deployment, efficient network resource utilisation, vendor independence through standardisation, and the separation of intelligence and switching functionality. This essay gives a general description of IN technology and application.
An intelligent network (IN) is a service-independent telecommunications network. That is, intelligence is taken out of the switch and placed in computer nodes that are distributed throughout the network. This provides the network operator with the means to develop and control services more efficiently. New capabilities can be rapidly introduced into the network. Once introduced, services are easily customized to meet individual customer's needs. The orginal IN networks were introduced by BELLCORE organization in the US in the mid 80's. The concept was a success over there and manufacturers all over the world - especially in Europe - began to develop it. 
Intelligent Network systems enable service providers to differentiate themselves from their competitors, increase revenue, and enhance the quality and scope of services to their subscribers. Services may be customized for each user, and end users can control their service through reconfiguration via the telephone or PC workstation. Because Intelligent Network systems often comply with standard interfaces, service providers are less likely to find themselves locked into their suppliers.
The basic promise of the Intelligent Network is to separate the core intelligence and databases for controlling services from the switching elements