Message conversion system for upgrading systems without halting

摘要

The communication system, e.g. a telecommunications system, upgrades applications such that messages targeted at the newer applications are different from their prior formats. A message conversion system (34) is installed to transfer messages. This is provided with message conversion information (36) that defines old and new formats. Data is also provided on which sources and targets require conversion between old and new, and new and old. The messages are then converted as defines and output as needed. Additional initialization messages may also be generated.