Two key concepts of IMS are (1) a standards-based architecture that enables best-of-breed, multi-vendor solutions and (2) the concept that the architecture bridges legacy and next-generation architecture. These two concepts exponentially add to the complexity of implementing, maintaining and operating service provider networks. Over and above the intricacies of the architecture and sheer volume of components are the numerous standards bodies, technological committees and industry forums that develop, promote and define the technology. These entities provide valuable information to equipment manufacturers, services providers and the industry as a whole but add another level of complexity to a complicated architecture.