7.1 Introduction

Service control is about controlling network resources to provide services in real time. This chapter concentrates on the opportunities for service control in future mobile, third generation (3G) networks. In particular, the focus is on the all-IP network, defined by the 3G Partnership Project (3GPP) [1] as the Release 4/5 network.

The subject is covered in three parts. Firstly, the business approach to services and the network architecture for the Release 4/5 network are discussed. Secondly, the intelligence strategy being used to direct the service control work is described. The last section brings together the preceding parts and describes how they are being pursued for service control in Release 4/5.

Service control encompasses the evolution of today's intelligent network, but also embraces the many new ways of providing real-time services. This includes terminal capabilities and IP technologies. It is used to refer to the software and signalling messages that control how a service functions above and beyond the ability for two parties to communicate using voice or data.

Mobile companies have invested hugely in 3G licences. To obtain a profitable return on this investment there must be added value in terms of applications and services. It is unlikely that customers will pay the corresponding revenues just for voice. The suite of services above and beyond basic voice will include multimedia (content), mCommerce, information and entertainment, conversational services, and the integration of combinations of these into complete solutions. There is a huge...