Network integration outsourcers need network operations know-how

The idea that network integrators make good future network operations outsourcers can be flipped around, as well. Network operators increasingly believe it is even more important that potential network integration bidders be strong network operations outsourcers.

An awareness of ongoing issues in network operations is paramount in being able to effectively integrate network components, as well as integrate the network into current practices and systems. Some providers have gone as far as to establish plans for a "professional services procurement zone" that would contract only with a small number of vendors to provide all professional services support needed for network installation and operation.

More on outsourcing network operations Check out how to outsource network operations and infrastructure planning Read the guidelines for outsourcing network planning and operations Consider adopting a telecom procurement zone strategy for your network infrastructure

Operators are currently divided on whether professional services for network integration and operations should be provided by an equipment vendor or by a third-party. So far, the trend has been to promote equipment vendors in the role, giving preference to vendors with a broad enough product base to have strong representation in most areas of NGN infrastructure.

Vendors with a broad product base can be an asset even in the next-generation network (NGN) planning phase, and outsourcing transformation planning is increasingly interesting to operators as a result. In fact, the worldwide trend for network operators is to increase the use of outsourcing and professional services during all phases of NGN planning and deployment.

As this trend develops, the symbiosis between the professional support services aligned with the project phases will increase, and it is likely that professional services will be as significant an NGN planning and project area as equipment will be.

Back to Creating network operations outsourcing plans during integration process

About the author: Tom Nolle is president of CIMI Corporation, a strategic consulting firm specializing in telecommunications and data communications since 1982. He is the publisher of Netwatcher, a journal addressing advanced telecommunications strategy issues. Check out his SearchTelecom.com networking blog Uncommon Wisdom.

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