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.

Telecom operations are on the verge of a huge inflection point. Will your OSS/BSS systems help ensure your organisation not only survives but thrives through it?

The future of telecom OSS/BSS is being shaped by rapid technological advancements, regulatory shifts and evolving customer demands. In 2025, the five key trends that follow will redefine how telecom operators manage networks, services and customer experiences.

As the value of information traversing global telecom networks increases, their attractiveness as cyber-targets also escalates. Networks face increasing threats, not just from cyberattacks and data breaches but from associated service disruptions. These challenges demand counter-measures - robust network assurance strategies that protect both operational integrity and data security. In this article, we explore how telecom operators can utilise network assurance and network inventory solutions in new ways to help combat rising cyber threats.

Change Management can be easily forgotten about by network operators and OSS/BSS vendors alike when embarking on a major OSS transformation project. In a recent Twitter post, Jason Fried posed a powerful question for those guiding a customer on an OSS transformation. Rather than simply focusing on what users will get or do with a new tool, as most project teams do, we should ask ourselves, what are customers going to stop doing once they start using it? This provides an entirely new perspective on the OSS transformation, one that shifts to the lens to the customer and their concerns, hopes, fears and dreams. 

The focus of the OSS industry often raises questions about whether it is addressing the most relevant areas, particularly in relation to the Hierarchy of Insight. The Hierarchy of insight is an evolution of the DIKW Pyramid (Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom), which is shown in the diagram below.

One of the most important workflows any telco can perform is that of bringing a new product to market. New offerings can drive business growth, enhance competitiveness and address evolving demands or expectations of the market. In an industry where technological advancements and customer expectations shift constantly, failing to introduce new or updated offers can even result in loss of market share. Moreover, a new offering can allow telcos to capitalise on emerging technologies or network investments, opening up new revenue streams from those investments. Perhaps most importantly, a new offer can strengthen customer loyalty by being seen to offer innovative services tailored to the evolving needs of consumers.