News and perspectives from the world of fiber optic networking

There's a lot to say in the world of fiber optic networking - planning, design, mapping, technology, software, database, permitting, dark fiber, fiber-to-the-home. The experienced network professionals of 3-GIS know the challenges you face & implement solutions daily.

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May 13, 2024 8:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Altnets

What does the future hold for UK AltNets?

As a sponsor of the recent INCA roadshow event Design and Build: Innovation in Action on 9th May, 3-GIS had a front-row seat to the evolving landscape of the UK AltNet scene. Amidst discussions and insights shared by operators, product suppliers, and technology vendors; it became evident that the telecom sector, particularly amongst AltNets, is facing a pivotal moment. Here are our reflections on the key takeaways from the event. 

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May 6, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Internet service
  • Communications service providers

Three common reasons ISPs get support calls and what they’re doing about it

It may come as no surprise that the surge in network demand has resulted in a corresponding increase in reported issues. This uptick in inquiries has left many internet service providers' (ISPs) customer support departments feeling the strain. But what's driving these calls, and more importantly, how can we effectively address them? Let’s dive into three common reasons customers seek assistance and explore ways to address these concerns, alleviate the burden on support teams, and reduce call volume.

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Apr 29, 2024 8:00:00 PM
  • Digital transformation
  • Communications service providers
  • Fiber deployment

Accelerating 5G deployment: A fiber rollout success story

The telecommunications industry is marked by fierce competition, especially as service providers worldwide strive to establish themselves as 5G front runners. For one major telecommunications company, the journey to implement 5G was riddled with a significant obstacle: the necessity to lay down 2,000 route miles of fiber each month to adhere to their ambitious rollout targets. However, their existing systems posed a severe constraint, yielding a meager output of merely 200 to 300 route miles monthly. Faced with this stark reality, it became evident that a shift was imperative if they were to keep stride with the relentless demands of the industry.

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Apr 22, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Telecom technologies
  • GIS
  • Fiber deployment

The evolving role of GIS in telecom

Today’s Geographic Information System (GIS) goes beyond mere mapping; it plays a crucial role in enhancing business operations overall. In telecom, the integration of GIS into network operations has become increasingly essential—evolving from simple asset tracking to influencing business strategy. But what’s driving this need?

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Apr 15, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Fiber network management
  • Data conversion
  • App modernization
  • Digital transformation

Moving from legacy to modern: The significance of data model alignment

If you are thinking of replacing your legacy GIS system with a modern one that supports web and mobile applications, you are on the right track. Over time, many legacy GIS solutions for telecom have become obsolete and outdated, struggling to keep pace with the demands of modern infrastructure management.  Today's GIS platforms offer telecom companies enhanced accessibility and real-time data visualization, empowering them to operate more efficiently, make informed decisions, and deliver better customer service.

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Apr 8, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Fiber network management
  • GIS
  • Digital transformation
  • Press

Along the Path: How can we adapt to future network needs?

Welcome to the 2024 Q2 edition of Along the Path. In this edition, we’re diving into ways to ensure your network management strategy can adapt to your future needs and exploring the role of GIS in ongoing network asset management.

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Apr 1, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Telecom technologies
  • 3-GIS | Web
  • Fiber network planning

Collecting railroad crossing information for fiber planning

Recently, I tuned into a webinar hosted by the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) all about permitting. One topic that caught my attention was the process of obtaining a railroad crossing permit, which, in the United States, requires including a standardized railroad crossing ID.

Curiosity piqued, and I decided to do a bit of sleuthing to see if this data was readily available. A quick Google search with the terms "Federal Railroad Crossing Esri" led me straight to the Federal Railroad Administration Safety Crossing Inventory, Form 71. I found that this database contained up-to-date information that could really simplify the permitting process.

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Mar 25, 2024 8:00:00 AM
  • Fiber network management
  • App modernization
  • Digital transformation
  • Communications service providers

Optimizing fiber asset management: Keys for successful network operations

Telecommunications is witnessing a surge in broadband development, especially in rural areas, driven largely by substantial funding initiatives from governments and private investors. This has sparked a race among incumbents and emerging contenders to rapidly expand their fiber footprints. However, securing funding is just one aspect of the larger picture.

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