Today's mobile networks are becoming increasingly complex and difficult to manage. Now that subscribers expect high-performance mobile services anywhere, at any time and on multiple devices, traffic patterns are in a constant state of flux. Consequently, mobile operators are looking for solutions to help them prioritize the built-out of additional network capacity, while at the same time managing CAPEX/OPEX costs and reducing churn.
With each of the new technology deployments meant to extend network capacity, such as HSPA/HSPA+ and small cells, the network planning and optimization process becomes longer and more costly. This often means managing – and paying for – multiple network technologies in parallel, as a single deployment could take years to complete. Network optimization automation is the key to successfully adding capacity to these networks and making the deployment and management of network resources easier and more cost-efficient.
Infovista recently partnered with Analysys Mason to develop a whitepaper that focuses on network optimization automation and the benefits it holds for mobile operators. Chief among those benefits is the ability to free up stranded capacity–that is, existing network capacity that goes unused.
Think of stranded capacity like being stranded on a desert island. You may have a wealth of useful knowledge to offer the world, but you have no way of actually sharing it. You're cut off from everyone and everything, and no one knows you're there. Stranded capacity is essentially a pool of resources that could greatly benefit mobile networks, but no one knows where to look for it.
One of the leading causes of stranded capacity is the fact that mobile operators often rely on network usage data that takes weeks to compile, and by the time they have access to that information, traffic patterns have already changed.
With network optimization automation, the planning and optimization process is streamlined by having access to up-to-date network usage information, and much of that stranded capacity – up to 40 percent – can be recovered and put to good use. This will, in turn, make mobile operators more effective in the deployment of new technologies designed to build out network capacity, because they will have a better understanding of where those resources are needed most. This is particularly important today, as mobile operators are competing in a saturated market where reducing churn and controlling CAPEX/OPEX costs means stronger margins and sustained growth for the future.
For more information on network optimization automation and how it can combat stranded capacity, churn and rising CAPEX/OPEX costs, making network planning more efficient and allowing mobile operators to deliver the highest quality of experience to their customers, download the joint Infovista-Analysys Mason whitepaper here.
