28% of telecommunications organizations still lack a dedicated fiber asset management system.1 For these companies - and many others using outdated solutions - this gap creates cascading challenges that impact everything from customer service to network maintenance.
This year, we gathered insights from our various polls and industry research throughout 2023-2024 to create our State of fiber management report. The study reveals how disconnected systems and outdated processes continue to challenge telecom organizations, even though significant progress has been made through digital transformation efforts. However, without a dedicated, comprehensive fiber management solution, teams are left struggling with fragmented data, manual processes, and inefficient workflows.
The cost of these disconnected systems is significant. The research uncovers several critical operational challenges that hinder efficiency and productivity. One key issue is the substantial backlog many organizations face in their as-built updates, with 39% reporting delays ranging from one to six months.1 These backlogs can create ripple effects across teams and projects, delaying timelines and increasing the risk of damage to infrastructure through lack of reporting to "call before you dig” agencies, such as 811 in the United States. The inability to keep project data updated not only slows down operations but also undermines confidence in decision-making processes that rely on accurate and timely information.
Data integration issues compound these challenges, with 50% of organizations struggling to synchronize information across systems.1 This disconnect leads to duplicated work, wasted resources, and delayed deployments—outcomes that can severely impact an organization’s ability to remain competitive. Furthermore, the research reveals that 71% of companies acknowledge their cross-departmental collaboration "could be better," pointing to broader inefficiencies in how teams share and utilize information.1 The lack of seamless collaboration and integrated systems ultimately hinders innovation, operational agility, and the ability to respond effectively to market demands.
These aren't just efficiency problems - they directly impact revenue, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage.
The transformation opportunity
Despite these challenges many in our industry are facing, some organizations are finding success through digital transformation. Our research shows that 46% of organizations have already modernized their systems, unlocking new possibilities for growth and efficiency.1 These forward-thinking companies are leveraging real-time collaboration, automated workflows, and data-driven insights to accelerate their operations. Beyond just solving today's problems, they're building scalable foundations that position them for future opportunities.
One shining example of industry adaptation is Emerald Broadband, a public benefit internet provider serving underserved communities in Lane County, Oregon. Like many growing providers, they initially struggled with fragmented data spread across multiple systems - a challenge that intensified after acquiring a coax company in 2019. By consolidating their network data into a single, searchable system, they transformed their operations. The results were immediate and impressive: they doubled their installation rates without increasing crew size.
The optimization went beyond installation rates. With improved data accessibility across their organization and enhanced field operations, Emerald Broadband reduced their network construction costs while expanding their service across Eugene, Springfield, Westfir, and Oakridge.
The gap between digitally mature organizations and those relying on legacy systems is growing increasingly consequential. As network demands continue to escalate and competition intensifies, the ability to effectively manage and optimize fiber infrastructure will become even more critical. Organizations that are taking action now won't just solve today's operational challenges – they'll be positioned to capitalize on tomorrow's opportunities.
Want the full story? This blog only scratches the surface of our findings. Get our complete State of fiber management report now: [Download the report]
Citations:
1 3-GIS, “State of fiber management,” January 2025, https://info.3-gis.com/fiber-management-industry-report
