Network operators the world over are investing billions to improve their service automation levels. However, it’s not uncommon for 5-10% of service orders to fall out at some point in their end-to-end journey. This is often due to breakdowns across disconnected OSS / BSS systems and misalignments in data flows. This article breaks down the seven operational steps modern network operators follow to close the gaps and ensure seamless service order management (SOM).
Telecom operators rely on massive data “factories” (and ecosystems) to seamlessly handle their day-to-day operations - delivering fast, reliable and personalised services. But even the most advanced data factories can be brought to a grinding halt when the ecosystems fall out of sync. Orders fall through the cracks, billing errors multiply and customer experience deteriorates.
Speak to anyone in the telco industry and they’ll almost inevitably want to discuss their network automation aspirations. Unfortunately, most overlook the single biggest factor that will prevent those aspirations ever being realised, regardless of how much budget is available to spend on tools and integration.
This article will look at the factor above and the four other most costly errors in resource planning and management. It will also provide hints on how to avoid or mitigate each of them.
Telecom operators have long understood that processing service orders efficiently at scale is critical to their operations. This is why countless funds are invested in making incremental process improvements and staff training to keep workflows running smoothly.
But despite these efforts, most Telcos are still bleeding money through outdated, manual service order management (SOM) systems. These legacy systems / processes slow down fulfillment, introduce costly errors and stretch operational teams to the limit.
Most operators believe they’re planning and scaling their network efficiently. After all, they’ve hired some of the best designers in the world. Or so they think.
They may have the best human designers in the world, but what if humans empowered by static engineering rules like “fibre deeper” and “overbuild by 25% everywhere” just aren’t even close to being the most optimal answer?
What happens when telecom network inventory management isn’t optimised or accurate? For telecom operators, the consequences of inaccuracy ripple across the entire service lifecycle in ways that most don’t even realise - from missed SLAs and failed activations to wasted technician hours, lost assets and even regulatory risk. These silent killers of OSS efficiency often go unnoticed until the losses start adding up into the millions and a costly audit is required. The good news? Accurate inventory doesn’t just patch this million dollar problem. It transforms your entire operational flow from designs to the field to fulfilment and operations.
5G technology has been at the forefront of recent telco investment waves. The global 5G services market was valued at USD 84 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 2.2 trillion by 2030 (growing at a CAGR of 59.4% from 2023 to 2030), according to Grand View Research.
5G offers revolutionary possibilities, such as enabling ultra-fast connectivity, low latency, and massive device connectivity. However, for many telcos, it’s now a case of recouping their large investments. Implementing and managing 5G networks presents unique challenges, from network planning and optimisation to service orchestration and operational efficiency. Perhaps even more front-of-mind for telcos is to identify attractive new offers to deliver to their customers.
The rapid evolution of telecommunications networks has introduced unparalleled opportunities for innovation and connectivity. However, it also comes with a set of significant challenges in managing the complete network, and the lifecycles of all of the parts that it’s comprised of. Asset / Network Lifecycle Management (ALM / NLM) involves the planning, design, procurement, deployment, operation, tracking and retirement of network assets. Effective NLM is essential for telecom operators to remain competitive.
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