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This article was originally published in the 3rd Quarter 2020 Equinox Update Newsletter.
The definition of “reference data” varies based on the context in which it’s used. When the context is TeleLink, reference data is any information other than the main feed (usage/switch records) input to the system. In short, TeleLink merges reference data with your original usage records to provide increased detail on output files/reports and to offer efficient data mining. This article describes what reference data is, explains how TeleLink supports it, and explores the value it adds to mediations and reports.
What does reference data contain?
Reference data can contain virtually any information that is meaningful to your company or that further enhances the initial network/switch feed, for example: jurisdictional data, localization data, trunk group provisioning, billing system records, third-party application data, internal business/operational support systems (B/OSS) files, carrier rates, phone numbers, wireless/mobile data, carrier data, company-specific data you maintain in spreadsheets, etc.
Why should I use reference data?
Reference data has many benefits. First, it lets you provide significantly increased detail on reports and mediation outputs so you can easily analyze and quickly act on opportunities and potential issues. For example, you can use subscriber information to appropriately filter mediation outputs or you can use network and trunk data to associate rates to carriers so you can identify and capitalize on opportunities, including route optimization tasks. Reference data also lets you mine data much more efficiently. TeleLink is a GIANT data warehouse, and reference data lets you easily carve out the desired info, which saves you time and streamlines your mediation AND reporting outputs.
Where does reference data come from?
Reference data for TeleLink 7 can come from virtually any external source, including:
How does my reference data get into TeleLink?
TeleLink accepts all reference data except User Tables via a standard or custom import, and then during the enrichment process, it merges this information with the original, raw usage records. TeleLink already support imports to automatically get and maintain many reference sources and is capable of importing virtually any other data you need. User Tables are populated by automatic import or by manual entry within TeleLink. User Table data is available for mediation filtering once Equinox Support configures that option, and it is available for reporting once Equinox creates a custom field for it.
How do I start using reference data?
TeleLink already supports standard imports to automatically get and maintain many types of information but is capable of importing virtually any data you need into the system. Review the TeleLink Implementation Guide for details about standard reference inputs. Identify the data you’d like to import into TeleLink and contact Equinox Support for next steps and to determine level of effort.
Where can I learn more?
On October 1, 2020, Christi Vanoye hosted a webinar on reference data in TeleLink, which included an overview of reference data, offered best practice tips for using it in TeleLink, and explained how to use this resource to enrich your reports and mediation outputs. You can watch that recording at any time, by logging into the Equinox Online Library. You can also schedule online training or a review of the reference data currently in use in your TeleLink installation by contacting Training@Equinoxis.com. As always, you can email Support@Equinoxis.com with questions or reach them by calling (615) 612-1225 Monday–Friday from 7:30 to 5:00 (Central).
