Here are some tips that will help to ensure a smooth and successful service installation for both the customer and the agent:

• Set the correct expectation with the customer.  Don’t promise anything that cannot be guaranteed by a carrier SLA.
  
  
• Standard Interval for DS1 installation is 30-45 business days.  Don’t over sell the ability to get the service installed any sooner.  Remember that we are all at the mercy of the LEC when it comes to test and turn up of the local loop.  (I can’t stress this enough.)
  
  
• Standard Interval for DS3 and above is 60 business days unless a build out is required which would lengthen the interval.  Always check with the carrier first before promising a date of installation when requiring a build out.
  
  
• Have a credit app filled out by the customer as soon as the carrier and service is selected.  Orders do not move forward until the customer passes credit and the installation interval clock doesn’t start until an order is deemed “clean” by the carrier.
  
  
• Have the customer sign an LOA to protect yourself and the carrier.
  
  
• Make sure you have the technical contact, installation contact & demark information clearly indicated on the order forms.