When customers consider setting up or expanding Ethernet Access Services, understanding the network's existing infrastructure and its ability to support the requested service is crucial. A Feasibility Study provides this critical information by assessing the availability and suitability of network components and infrastructure at the requested location. These studies can incur charges based on the nature of the request and its connection to an existing order. Here’s a comprehensive look at Feasibility Study Charges:

1. What Is a Feasibility Study?

A Feasibility Study is a technical assessment conducted by Capti or Telstra to determine the availability, quality, and capability of the existing network infrastructure at the location where the customer wants to provision a service. It involves a detailed analysis of the following aspects:

  • Infrastructure Availability: Evaluating whether the necessary network infrastructure, such as fibre cables, ducts, or access points, is available and capable of supporting the requested service.
  • Technical Feasibility: Assessing if the existing equipment and network architecture can deliver the desired service parameters (e.g., bandwidth, latency).
  • Operational Considerations: Reviewing any physical or technical barriers (e.g., physical obstructions, equipment limitations) that might impact the installation or performance of the service.

This assessment helps ensure that the customer has accurate information before committing to an installation, avoiding unforeseen issues and costs later in the provisioning process.

2. When Are Feasibility Study Charges Applied?

Charges for a feasibility study depend on the circumstances of the request:

  • Separate Request (Not Linked to an Order): If a customer requests a feasibility study independently, without tying it to an active service order, charges will apply. This is because Capti or Telstra commits resources (e.g., network engineers, technical evaluations) to assess the location without the guarantee that an order will follow.
  • Feasibility Study Connected to an Order: When a feasibility study is conducted as part of a submitted order for a new service, the charges may be different or waived, depending on the terms of the agreement. If the order proceeds based on the feasibility study’s findings, the cost may be absorbed into the overall service charges. However, if the study reveals that additional infrastructure or custom solutions are needed, additional charges may still apply.

3. Examples of Feasibility Study Scenarios

  • Assessing New Locations: When a customer wants to connect a location that has not been previously connected to the network, a feasibility study may be required to check the availability of fibre, the distance to the nearest network point, and any potential obstacles that might require special linkage solutions.
  • Service Upgrades: For customers looking to upgrade their existing services (e.g., increasing bandwidth or adding redundant connections), a feasibility study can determine if the current infrastructure supports the upgrade or if additional work is needed.
  • Remote or Complex Sites: In locations that are geographically challenging or far from existing network infrastructure, a feasibility study helps identify the most effective and cost-efficient method to provide connectivity.

4. Why Do These Charges Exist?

Feasibility study charges exist to cover the costs of the resources and expertise needed to perform a thorough evaluation of the location’s infrastructure. This includes:

  • Technical Analysis: Involving network engineers and technical specialists to analyse network maps, conduct site visits (if necessary), and model potential solutions.
  • Use of Technology and Tools: Utilising specialised software and tools to simulate network configurations and connectivity scenarios.
  • Time and Labour Costs: Compensating the time spent by technicians and engineers in planning and evaluating the feasibility of the requested service.

By charging for these studies, Telstra ensures that customers receive precise and detailed information about the availability and requirements of the network while maintaining transparency and fairness in the service setup process.

5. How Will You Be Notified of Feasibility Study Charges?

If a feasibility study charge applies, Capti or Telstra will notify you upfront, detailing the cost and scope of the study. You will have the opportunity to review and approve the charges before any work begins, ensuring there are no unexpected costs. If the study indicates that further work or special infrastructure is necessary, you will be informed of any additional charges that may apply.

Conclusion

Feasibility Studies are essential for understanding the infrastructure requirements and capabilities for Ethernet Access Services. By recognising when these charges apply and how they are structured, customers can make informed decisions and plan their network setup more effectively. Always ensure you receive detailed information and explanations from Capti or Telstra regarding feasibility study charges and outcomes.