This standard identifies the structure and the coded format structure for the identification of the manufacturers@ suppliers@ and related service companies that provide products to the communications industry. The code formats defined in this standard are used to facilitate information exchange in the identification of these companies across various processes for both humans and machines as it relates to business supporting functions such as: Product identification and marking. Asset recording and financial management. Procurement. Inventory and spares management. Planning@ forecasting@ and reporting. Engineering and provisioning. Inter-carrier ordering. Trouble administration. This standard also outlines the responsibilities of the maintenance agent.