The telecoms market is seeing rapid change, perhaps even faster than we first expected. Alongside this, the current economic climate has caused a push for network operators to shift focus from network expansion to connecting customers. That has sadly meant that reductions in headcount have been a common theme, as evidenced in a recent study showing that 76% of communications service providers (CSPs) surveyed had reduced their workforce in the last 6 years.1
These reductions, coupled with those leaving the industry due to retirement, have created a collective ‘brain drain’ with the knowledge tied up in systems, processes, and network architecture now at risk of being lost. Based on these challenges, operators will need to do more with less to operate efficiently.
How can a higher output be achieved with less staff? Here we list out the key ways GIS can help counteract some of these skills challenges and help network providers effectively utilise resources and technology across the entire organisation.
Making data more comprehensible
Telecom networks are incredibly complex, with infrastructure spread across vast geographic areas. Traditional data representations—spreadsheets, lists, and static maps—can be overwhelming and difficult to interpret. GIS transforms this data into a visual, interactive format that is easier to understand.
This allows network operators to visualize network components in a geographic context with layers representing different types of infrastructure, giving a clear understanding of network layouts to enable more informed decision-making.
GIS data also improves communication, giving field technicians, engineers, and management access to the same information, reducing miscommunication and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Reducing field visits during network build
Building and maintaining telecom networks traditionally require numerous field visits for site surveys, inspections, and troubleshooting. Each visit consumes time and resources, contributing to project delays and increased costs. By leveraging GIS data, network operators can significantly reduce the need for these visits.
With GIS, much of the site survey work can be done remotely. High-resolution satellite imagery and topographic maps provide detailed views of potential sites, enabling preliminary assessments without leaving the office. Operators can evaluate terrain, existing infrastructure, and environmental factors remotely, narrowing down the list of sites that require physical inspection.
Increasing data visibility
Data silos can hinder efficiency and innovation. Implementing a GIS platform helps break down these silos by integrating data from various sources into a single, accessible source that serves as a centralized repository for all data related to the network. Infrastructure details, maintenance records, and performance metrics are all stored in one place, accessible to everyone who needs them. This centralization eliminates the inefficiencies of scattered data sources and ensures that critical information is always up to date.
Automating processes
Automation is a powerful tool for addressing the resource challenges currently being faced, and by automating routine tasks and processes, network operators can free up skilled personnel to focus on more complex issues. GIS platforms can automate workflows for common field tasks, such as inspections and audits, speeding up time spent in the field and ensuring any identified issues are addressed promptly.
GIS-enabled mobile applications enable field technicians to review and edit information as needed and provide access to detailed maps, infrastructure data, and real-time updates. This ability to update records on-site and in real-time ensures that the central GIS database is always current, further enhancing data accuracy and visibility.
Incorporating GIS into telecom operations not only addresses the current skills gap but also lays the groundwork for a more efficient, resilient, and adaptable network infrastructure. As the industry continues to evolve, those who leverage GIS will be better positioned to meet the demands of the future and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
This post is based on our recent webinar, Unlocking GIS data to combat the telecom skills challenge. Miss the live session? Access the recording of the webinar here.
Citations:
1 Finding skills for the future: Inside the telco talent revolution. TM Forum. https://inform.tmforum.org/research-and-analysis/reports/finding-skills-for-the-future-inside-the-telco-talent-revolution
