Implementation has already begun on the final version of the systems, which will allow NBN Co to onboard and provision retail service providers, bill ongoing access seekers and monitor performance of the $36 billion network.

NBN Co has sought a final version of the systems since releasing a request for tender in July last year and a request for capability last month, in which IBM was selected as the lead contractor.

IBM will be primarily responsible for billing (an Oracle system), assurance and integration of the company's own DataPower B2B backend. A services-oriented architecture integration will also involve deployment of IBM's middleware Websphere and Common Information Model suites.

IBM will also be responsible for additional consulting on the project and integration of customised portals developed and used by NBN Co during trial construction of the network for customer interface, contact centre support, customer relationship management, and a wholesale pricing calculator.

According to IBM, the systems integration will take place under the company's Service Provider Delivery Environment, a framework it expects to speed up deployment.