perceval.netperceval.netThe VISP project will enable a cluster of SMEs to operate as a single business entity, in multiple dynamic business models, for the production of tailored Internet Service Provider (ISP) solutions adapted to local business needs.
VISP will specify ISP services by combining building blocks chosen in a list of a few hundreds that can each be parameterized. This will allow selling tailored services with a fine control and to differentiate from incumbent operators.
Ontologies of building blocks specified in a language like OWL will enable software based service design and ordering. It will result in a precise description of the services (knowledge base) to be implemented and provisioned, that will be advertised in WSDL using UDDI.
Implementation and provisioning of building blocks by different partners will require business and implementation processes in the cluster. They will be modelled as workflows using choreography and orchestration formal languages in order to be executed and monitored on distributed workflow engines.
Implementation workflows will act on network components through an abstract object representation based on existing standards like CIM. This data will be stored in LDAP following the Directory Enabled Networks (DEN) principles to be accessed by cluster's partners. VISP will combine multiple innovative technologies mainly based on XML in the field of ontologies, workflow technologies, network modelling, DEN and Web services.
VISP will build an integrated and automated software platform made of a modelling environment linked to a distributed, secured and manageable workflow execution environment interfaced with ERPs. VISP intends to use and produce Open Source software as much as possible.
VISP will also contribute to standardization by extending existing standards to encompass ISP services and their implementation. It will adapt and complement business workflows, and specify implementation workflows as contribution to standards.