MP137 'Sharing information on Defects and Issues'

Currently, there is no approach allowing Smart Energy Code (SEC) Parties and the Data Communications Company (DCC) to share information on known issues with Devices, or their compatibility, (except Communications Hubs) except via open forums, due to the commercially sensitive information surrounding the Devices. Though some Suppliers may have information to support the resolution of some Device issues, there is no accessible means to share such information across the industry. Consequently, the lack of an industry approach to tackling issues and defects posed by Devices and Device Model Combinations (DMC) means that issue fixes are slow for the end energy consumer.

The Proposed Solution is for the DCC to develop and maintain a standalone database where an issue, defect or unusual Device behaviour can be recorded. This database will be initially populated with information that has already been gathered and is being held in the DCC Service Management System (DSMS) around Communications Hub issues and fixes.
The solution will require a disclaimer on the database as per the legal advice to ensure that those who view the database do not make assumptions about Device manufacturers from the information available.