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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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Some network operators still rely on manual processes or outdated tools for outside plant (OSP) design, assuming they can cut costs by avoiding specialized software.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 24, 2025 3:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • FTTH
  • Fiber deployment

Rural vs urban fiber network planning: The challenges and opportunities

The approach to planning and deploying fiber networks can vary dramatically between rural and urban environments. While modern fiber design software has revolutionized how providers tackle these challenges, the differences in these environments require carefully tailored, data-driven strategies to maximize ROI, reduce deployment risks, and accelerate time to market.

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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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Feb 3, 2025 5:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Telecom technologies
  • Fiber deployment

Why AI's data center boom demands smarter fiber planning

With the announcement of a $500 billion AI infrastructure initiative and Microsoft's planned $80 billion investment in data center expansions, the race to build America's AI infrastructure is accelerating rapidly.¹ AI isn't just another tech trend—it's becoming woven into the fabric of daily life, from the algorithms that personalize our streaming services to the chatbots handling customer inquiries. For telecom operators, this shift represents more than just an infrastructure challenge. As AI applications become essential to business operations, network reliability and speed directly impact their customers' abilities to compete in an AI-driven world.

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Jan 6, 2025 3:00:00 PM
  • Fiber network industry and markets
  • Communications service providers
  • Fiber deployment

Navigating the changing telecom landscape: Strategies for success

The telecom industry stands at the intersection of rapid innovation and shifting challenges. Economic uncertainties, increasing pricing pressures, and evolving customer demands create a landscape where agility and adaptability are more critical than ever. Amid these changes, the industry remains resilient and optimistic, underpinned by significant investments in infrastructure, innovation, and customer-centric strategies. 

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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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