Systems control, in a communications system, is the control and implementation of a set of functions that: 1. * prevent or eliminate degradation of any part of the system, 2. * initiate immediate response to demands that are placed on the system, 3. * respond to changes in the system to meet long range requirements, and 4. * may include various subfunctions, such as 5. * immediate circuit utilization actions, 6. * continuous control of circuit quality, 7. * continuous control of equipment performance, 8. * development of procedures for immediate repair, restoration, or replacement of facilities and equipment, 9. * continuous liaison with system users and with representatives of other systems, and 10. * the provision of advice and assistance i