Member Insights
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, the telecommunications sector stands at the cusp of a significant revolution—one driven by the pursuit of fully autonomous networks (AN). Jay Naillon, VP of Technology Solutions, CME, Sutherland, discusses the AN Level Assessment and why it is essential for CSPs.
Accelerating the autonomous network journey - a pathway to enhanced capabilities and strategic advantage
Introduction: the evolution towards autonomous networks
In our increasingly interconnected world, where telecommunications serve as the backbone of global digital infrastructure, the demand for heightened efficiency, reliability, and agility has reached unprecedented levels. Telecom operators are under immense pressure to meet rapidly evolving customer expectations and manage the ever-growing surge in data traffic.
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, the telecommunications sector stands at the cusp of a significant revolution—one driven by the pursuit of fully autonomous networks (AN). The TM Forum's Autonomous Network (AN) Level Assessment provides a critical framework for evaluating and advancing network automation within Communications Service Providers (CSPs). As CSPs navigate the complexities of network operations, the AN Level Assessment offers a structured pathway to achieving greater efficiency, enhanced customer experience, and a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
This shift goes beyond mere technological advancement; it signifies a profound reimagining of network management that holds the key to unlocking new levels of digital performance.
Understanding the AN Level Assessment
The TM Forum's AN Level Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation tool designed to measure a CSP's progress towards network autonomy. This framework categorizes network automation maturity into six distinct levels, ranging from Level 0 (manual operations) to Level 5 (full autonomy). Each level represents a milestone in the journey towards a fully self-managing, self-optimizing, and self-healing network.
The assessment not only helps organizations identify their current position on this maturity scale but also provides actionable insights into the steps required to advance to the next level.
The strategic importance of AN Level Assessment
Advancing through the AN maturity levels is not just about technology; it’s about strategic positioning, operational efficiency, and competitive differentiation. Here’s why the AN Level Assessment is essential for CSPs:
Leading CSPs in the autonomous network journey
Several CSPs are making significant strides in advancing their AN maturity, with notable examples leading the way in specific areas of network automation and management: