[Asterisk-Dev] Creating An Asterisk Data Model

[Steven Sokol]

Sorry for the long message - brain dump time:

I've spent the past few days working on a comprehensive data model for a
client.  The client is a carrier and wants to be able to provide both retail
and wholesale service using a cluster of Asterisk systems.  To further
complicate the configuration, they want to provide both basic services (dial
tone + voicemail + Class5 features) and Virutal PBX/IP Centrex services.

While this is somewhat complex, it's nothing new.  Many providers have
similar offerings.  The clustering is a challenge but not a show stopper.
For what it's worth, I currently have about 15 tables defined.  I figure I
am 1/4 to 1/5 of the way done.

The reason I bring all of this up is that it might be cool to work together
to come up with an advanced, flexible data model that can become a starting
point if not a standard for Asterisk implementations.

The model should support the most common types of implementations: 

- Asterisk as SOHO PBX
- Asterisk as Enterprise PBX
- Asterisk as ACD (Call Center)
- Asterisk as IVR Server
- Asterisk as Voicemail Server
- Asterisk as Hosted IP Centrex Platform
- Asterisk as PSTN Media Gateway (service provider)
- Asterisk as VoIP Gateway (enterprise) 
- Others that I missed here... (Suggestions?)

This seems to be a good place to start working towards a number of topics
that have been discussed on IRC and this list:

- A single point of authentication
- Common VoIP configuration (single account works for IAX, SIP, MGCP, H323)
- A user-centric dial plan or at least an expansion of the concept of users
- A central registry that allows for easy, scalable clustering
- Enhanced billing, routing, and rating features

All of these things are good steps forward.  All of these will help make
Asterisk a "safe" solution (thus easier to sell to management).

I realize that this may be heresy/flame-bait, but with ast_data moving
closer to implementation, now is a good time to work out a common model for
providing these services.

Thoughts?

Steve

Steven Sokol
Owner/Manager
Sokol & Associates, LLC

Phone:  816.822.1807
IaxTel: 700.613.9004
Web:    http://www.sokol-associates.com