AN INTERACTIVE DESIGN SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR ATM NETWORKS - PLANQUEST

This paper describes PLANQUEST, a support system for use in the design of ATM network architectures, and presents case studies to demonstrat e its effectiveness. An important feature of PLANQUEST is that it incl udes support for the design of hierarchical structures, topologies, an d for the transit node function assignment, all of which affect networ k cost-effectiveness. Further, it manages to reduce significantly the time required for calculating VP (Virtual Path) capacity, thus improvi ng response time sufficiently to support a fully interactive design sy stem, and its advanced graphical interface makes it easy for users to see and modify the design as it progresses. Finally, to help users des ign for uncertain ATM network conditions, PLANQUEST provides an import ant sensitivity analysis function based on such variables as traffic a nd QOS (Quality Of Service) demands. This facilitates the design of th e most cost-effective network configuration.