Automated Repair Service Bureau: Cable Repair Administrative System

The CRAS system helps Outside Plant Maintenance (OSPM) managers to identify people and plant items that need attention on a priority basis. For example, C R A S helps managers schedule repair forces efficiently and locate organizational trouble spots in the complex process of O S P repair. The CRAS system also helps locate those cables or terminals that, over periods of time, cause an excessive number of customer troubles or especially high repair costs. Thus, repair money can be directed where it is most effective. This article gives the background for C R A S and describes its goals, usage, and architecture. It also comments on the design approach used, unusual features included, and lessons learned from its development.