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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Ashlee Hornbuckle

Jun 30, 2025 5:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • Telecom technologies
  • App modernization
  • 3-GIS | Web

Three reasons to rethink fiber outage response

The stakes are high for fiber service providers: contracts come with strict service-level agreements (SLAs), customer expectations around reliability are increasing, and the cost of delayed fault response—both in dollars and reputation—is growing. Fiber may be more resilient than copper, but it’s not immune to cuts, degradation, or equipment impacts.

But even with sophisticated systems in place, many operators are still relying on manual fault response workflows—waiting for alarms to stack up, dispatching trucks without a confirmed location, or hearing about issues from customers first.

It’s an approach that isn’t just inefficient—it’s costly too.

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Jun 9, 2025 7:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Telecom technologies
  • Fiber deployment

What I learned (and loved) at Fiber Connect 2025

When you think of an industry conference, it’s easy to picture a sea of vendor booths and product pitches. And while vendors do play a critical role in the buildout process (after all, you can’t build a fiber network without fiber), the exhibit hall at Fiber Connect 2025 was much more than a marketplace—it was a learning space. From hands-on demos and discussion salons to a smart home theater, the show floor offered attendees a chance to dig into every corner of the fiber ecosystem.

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May 19, 2025 5:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • Telecom technologies
  • 3-GIS | Web
  • Fiber network planning

Planned Connections: Redefining how teams handle change in a live fiber management system

In fiber network operations, change is constant. Whether turning up a new customer, rerouting around a break, or expanding capacity, the underlying network data is always in motion. Planning those changes within fiber network management software helps ensure accuracy, visibility, and alignment across teams—but executing them without disrupting the live operational environment presents an entirely different challenge for network operators: the need to understand both what’s currently installed and what changes are planned.

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Mar 21, 2025 4:21:12 PM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Communications service providers
  • Fiber deployment

2025 and beyond: What’s next for telecom?

Fiber networks have transformed how we live, work, and connect. They power everything from streaming our favorite shows to enabling the smart cities of the future. But as demand skyrockets and technology advances, fiber networks are stepping up to the challenge in ways that go beyond what we’ve seen before. So, what’s next for this critical infrastructure? Let’s explore the trends and technologies shaping the future of telecom.

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Mar 10, 2025 3:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network design and automation
  • Telecom technologies
  • Fiber deployment

The hidden costs of not using OSP design software

Some network operators still rely on manual processes or outdated tools for outside plant (OSP) design, assuming they can cut costs by avoiding specialized software. But what seems like a cost-saving measure can often result in unexpected expenses, from labor-intensive rework to project delays and compliance issues. The hidden price of these inefficiencies adds up quickly—delaying revenue, straining budgets, and putting operators at a competitive disadvantage. Let’s break down the financial impact of relying on manual OSP design methods.

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Feb 17, 2025 5:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • Telecom technologies
  • 3-GIS | Web
  • Fiber deployment

How fiber mapping software cuts costs – Part 2: Unlocking savings with 3-GIS

In Part 1 of this series, we explored how fiber mapping software can optimize both CapEx and OpEx by improving accuracy, streamlining operations, and reducing unnecessary expenses. Now, let’s take a closer look at how 3-GIS software and services specifically address these challenges—helping network operators accelerate deployment, minimize costs, and maximize returns.

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Feb 10, 2025 2:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • Communications service providers
  • Fiber deployment

How fiber mapping software cuts costs – Part 1: CapEx and OpEx considerations

Fiber networks are complex, high-value investments, and every decision about their design, deployment, and maintenance impacts the bottom line. Some network operators view fiber mapping software as a necessary capital expenditure (CapEx), ensuring their network is built on accurate, scalable data from day one. Others see it as a strategic investment that reduces operational expenses (OpEx) over time by minimizing costly errors, avoiding unnecessary truck rolls, and streamlining maintenance. The reality? The right software protects both your initial investment while lowering the costs of managing and maintaining your network. 

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Dec 30, 2024 2:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network management
  • 3-GIS | Web
  • Fiber deployment

5 tips for simplifying fiber project management

Fiber network projects demand precision, collaboration, and well-orchestrated workflows to succeed. While the challenges are significant, they’re not insurmountable. With effective strategies and robust tools, you can streamline execution and achieve success without compromising performance. Below are five ways to ensure your fiber network management system works smarter for you.

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