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Dharmendra Misra, Wipro
Taking the measure of autonomous network deployment
Autonomous networks can deliver huge operational improvements. But getting started on deploying them isn’t easy and many communications service providers (CSPs) and digital service providers (DSPs) run into the same hurdle during the early stages of autonomous networks adoption: They know an autonomous network deployment needs to be founded on the ability to measure and manage the value it delivers, but it is very likely they lack a firm grasp on what to measure and how.
For this reason, TM Forum’s members have collaborated to create the MAMA (Measuring and Managing Autonomy) framework, which aims to give CSPs and DSPs the structural pillars they need to underpin their autonomous system deployments.
The MAMA framework establishes six foundational components, namely Autonomous Operations Strategic Initiatives, Value Realization, Value Model, Autonomous Operation Maturity Model, Capability Optimization Blueprint, and AO Maturity Benchmarking. The model is represented in the following diagram (ref GB1040)
Precision is crucial when deciding what to measure and where, if service providers and their partners are to avoid a biased interpretation that results in inefficient design. There is also a need to focus on what is manageable and what needs to be made manageable. Any system designed with a very high degree of autonomy comes with an in-built risk of unmanageability that may result in operational complexities. This makes it essential to put in place a strategic and forward-looking governance layer from the outset.
The autonomous system needs to act as per autonomy provided within governance parleys and if there is any exception then that can be either handled within the autonomous framework or collapse without affecting any other process or operation adversely or persist to make the system surview until exceptional situation is resolved for normal progression afterwards. Monitoring these governing needs and exceptions are essential to enhancing autonomous capabilities.
Telcos also want to make use of autonomous systems to support and further their sustainability goals. MAMA’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative therefore addresses the effective use of autonomous systems for sustained growth and defines KPIs that help service providers monitor social, economic, environmental, people and ecological sustainability.
These are just some of examples of the great assets taking shape in MAMA as a result of collaboration between CSPs, DSPs, equipment vendors, consulting service providers and systems integrators. Their initiatives to define and establish the framework, methodology and approach for effective value enhancement in autonomous network/systems include:
