HCG will utilize the following procedure for each project. This procedure and the entire audit process were developed while performing Network Audit Projects for other clients and has been fine tuned to provide the maximum efficiency and results.

1. Obtain Site name and address list from Customer.
        a. Soft copy preferred
        b. Manually enter paper list
     
2. Obtain Customer database of telecommunications services and import/manually enter into HCG database.
     
3. Obtain and analyze copies of all telecommunications bills and corporate charges paid by Customer.
       a. Most bills do not itemize services
       b. Examine for unauthorized charges (internet, alternate providers)
       c. Local Exchange Company
       d. Cell Phones
       e. Long Distance
       f.  800
     
4. Obtain and analyze Local Exchange Carrier (LEC) and Interexchange Carrier (IXC) service reports for voice and data services at each Customer site.
        a. Only way to get inventory of itemized services
        b. Most customers request summary IXC bills
     
5. Obtain internal records, contracts and documentation from Corporate/Individual Customer locations where available.
        a. Long Distance
        b. Competitive Local Exchange Company (CLEC)
     
6. Create site files in the database and populate with all available site and billing information.
     
7. Arrange site visits in geographical priority.
     
8. Visit Customer sites where appropriate and physically inventory all voice and data services.
     
9. Interview site personnel to ascertain use of leased facilities.
        a. Known use of lines/trunks
        b. Features/services
     
10. Validate business function processes of each site and evaluate telecommunications services with reference to this function.
         a. Calling Patterns
         b. Inward/outward traffic (DID/DOD usage)
       
11. Review and analyze Intralata and Interlata long distance for each Customer site.
         a. Cost benefit of alternate services
         b. Is location on Corporate Plan?
         c. "Thrifty Bills"
      
12. Request PBX traffic studies from maintenance service provider or Local Exchange Company (LEC). Analyze traffic studies and make recommendations for trunking adjustments based on current employee count and business function.
      
13. Review 800 usage at each Customer location (if applicable).
       
14. Identify services that are billed incorrectly and work with Vendor(s) to correct. This will ensure accurate records for the Customer.
       
15. Recommend disconnect/modification of voice and data services as necessary at each location.
       
16. Place orders for disconnect/modifications as approved by Customer.
       
17. Update database to reflect changes.
      
18. Provide documentation of changes and database to corporate/site personnel.
      
19. Provide monthly progress reports and final report at end of project to Customer management.