Integrated Network Planning: A Key Success Factor for Network Operators

Abstract

The prices which can be charged per transmitted bit are stagnating or even falling. End users are aware of this because of the flat rate models which allow them to use telecommunications networks for an unlimited time in return for a basic fee. The demand for new services is significantly increasing, not only from consumers, but also from industries. Network operators are faced with the challenge of aligning costs for planning, construction, and operation of the required communications infrastructure with declining revenues per bit. Operators can meet the required cost-cutting targets only by rigorously exploiting all of the potential for saving money and by efficiently expanding networks at the exact points where and when it is required. The fundamental prerequisite for their success is comprehensively integrated planning oriented to potential.