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9 Conclusions

These Technical Specifications collected a broad theoretical background regarding developing an
SSC ICT architecture, which was strengthened with literature findings and experiences for various
SSC cases in order to define a common SSC ICT architecture development process. This process
returned a common SSC ICT meta‐architecture, accompanied by a useful set of principles, functional

requirements and guides for this architecture. However, it was concluded that no‐unique physical
SSC ICT architecture exists, but various alternatives are produced from the above process. Indicative
architecture snapshots were depicted with regard of the software engineering and communications
views respectively. Moreover, an analysis of the SSC ICT architecture in its subsystems and modules
have been presented.
The content and supplementary information contained in these Technical Specifications allow the
following general reflections:

 Multi‐tier architecture secures SSC ICT good management. The proposed multi‐tier meta‐
architecture covers hard and soft SSC facilities and delivers the required SSC services. The
selected layers match completely to the SSC KPIs.

 Modular architecture secures flexibility and it is applicable to almost any SSC. The proposed
modules focus on SSC synthesis and on ICT management. The selected modules with their
components perform a perfect match to the SSC KPIs.
The illustrated architecture concerns a technical architecture, which can [14]:

a) Enhance SSC ICT operation: better‐defined structure and modularity in the ICT environment
leads to a much more effective ICT operation:

▪ Lower software development, support, and maintenance costs
▪ More application portability

▪ Improved interoperability and easier system and network management
▪ A better ability to address critical SSC organization‐wide issues such as security and
privacy

▪ Easier upgrade and exchange of system components
b) Secure an improved return on existing investment and reduced risk for future investment:
the structure of existing and planned systems is clearly defined, leading to:

▪ Reduced complexity in ICT infrastructure
▪ Maximum return on investment in existing ICT infrastructure

▪ The flexibility to make, buy, or outsource ICT solutions
▪ Reduced risk overall in new investment and the costs of ICT ownership

c) Enable faster, simpler, and cheaper procurement: there is a clear strategy for future
procurement and migration, with the result that:

ITU‐T's Technical Reports and Specifications 375