The disclosed system includes a declarative language construct for use in programming telecommunications switching systems, comprised of certain natural language elements such as subjects, predicates and objects. The disclosed system also includes an efficient method for constructing prototype telecommunications system software that provides the capability to handle the real-time and parallel nature of operations in telecommunications systems (Figs. 1-3). In yet another aspect, the disclosed system provides a layered software architecture (Figs. 8 and 9) for use in connection with telecommunications switching systems that enhances overall system functionality.