Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a method is presented for providing an end user with a virtual reality experience. A server generates three-dimensional information. The three-dimensional information is generated using real-time alarm information representing an alarm, VRML schema information and meta-data. A client receives the three dimensional information. A three-dimensional image of a network operations center including a device responsible for the alarm is presented in a GUI. Operating the GUI allows the end user to experience moving through the operations center to the location of the device responsible for the alarm.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a method of providing relevant information about a network problem is presented. In one embodiment of the present invention, methods are presented for acquiring, analyzing, and distributing relevant information to network operations personnel, which include both service provider personnel and clients. A network portal is presented. The network portal consolidates and intelligently distributes network operations information, such as alarm information in real time. As such, the information required to make informed decisions is communicated to network operations personnel in a format that facilitates the access and use of the information. In addition, as the network problem changes (i.e., resolves, escalates), the changes in the alarm information may also be communicated to network operations personnel.