Telecom network automation represents an exciting path of possibility in the way telecommunication networks are managed, operated, and maintained. As networks become more complex and customer expectations for reliability and service quality increase, the traditional, highly manual processes that have long underpinned network management are no longer viable. The adoption of more sophisticated automation technologies is not merely an operational choice but a strategic imperative that are required to supplement and enhance the capabilities of Operational Support Systems (OSS) and Business Support Systems (BSS).

Maintaining robust network and service assurance is a non-negotiable requirement for any network operator. Every telecommunications customer expects their services to be reliable, especially as we become ever more reliant on our network connections and the apps that depend on them. Network operators have no choice but to ensure seamless service delivery, optimal performance, and customer satisfaction despite dealing with an increasingly complex service delivery environment. This is where Operations Support Systems (OSS) and Business Support Systems (BSS) play a pivotal role. Advanced OSS/BSS solutions act like an insurance policy, allowing operators to rely on the availability of their network and the services that ride over them.

Network Lifecycle Management (NLM) is the systematic process of overseeing a network, and all of the components that it’s comprised of, evolve from its initial design and deployment through to its retirement or replacement. It encompasses a series of phases, including planning, designing, implementing, operating, optimising, and eventually decommissioning network components. Each phase plays a critical role in maintaining network performance, security and reliability. With margins seemingly diminishing within the telco sector year over year, optimal management of the network lifecycle is increasingly important.

The landscape of network planning and rollout processes is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and changing user demands. As networks become more complex and integral to our daily lives, but profitability in the telco industry declines, efficient and effective planning and deployment are paramount. This article delves into the emerging trends in network planning and rollout processes, highlighting the capabilities that align with modern solutions like the Sunvizion Network Planning product.

In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements and increases in technology sophistication, telecommunications networks require advanced and robust management systems that keep pace with current demands but also anticipate and adapt to future needs. 

In this article by Jinsung Choi (the Chair of the O-RAN Alliance), “The Future of Network Management,” highlights the need for Autonomous Network Controllers (ANCs). He describes ANCs thus, “An Autonomous Network Controller is a sophisticated form of network management technology designed to automate the operation, management, and optimization of network resources.”

Network inventory solutions like SunVizion Network Inventory, Network Configuration Management and Network Planning and Design modules combine to form three of the most pivotal pieces of any network operator’s OSS/BSS product suite. In this article we’ll explore the comprehensive range of use-cases they service, which are crucial for the efficient and effective management of telecommunications networks. These solutions cater to various aspects of network management, including network planning and design, network capacity allocation, asset management and automated network design, as well as support for assurance and fulfilment use-cases. 

Let's explore these use-cases in greater detail:

Yann LeCun is a renowned figure in the field of deep learning and heads Meta’s artificial intelligence (AI) research labs. LeCun has been noted as saying, from his experience leading Meta’s research lab, “the most rewarding hires were those who brought more intellect to the table than myself. Working with individuals who display superior intellect can be enriching and elevating.” 

If we were to travel back in time to the 1980s, we would find the landscape of Operational Support Systems (OSS) and Business Support Systems (BSS) was akin to an uncharted wilderness. Concepts like alarm management, performance management, inventory management, and all the others were in their nascent stages, barely developed or perhaps not even conceptualised yet. The possibilities for innovation in this space would now seem staggering, with vast areas awaiting exploration and development.