MERIMA ŽIKO BSS
terms, making integration into the BSS process challenging. Integrated with ordering and billing systems, an agreement management module will support customised business contracts so wholesale fibre partners can receive personalised service. A revenue management module is also vital for wholesale billing activities, such as managing invoicing based on agreements and subscription dates, while ensuring integration with financial systems for smooth reporting. A comprehensive catalogue is crucial for managing complex product offerings and addressing market challenges. It must support the entire product lifecycle, allowing quick adaptions to new internet speeds and flexibility to meet different partners’ needs. The order capture, orchestration, and fulfilment processes must be smooth and closely aligned with the catalogue while integrating with external systems and internal BSS applications, which requires significant flexibility. A unified order management module provides this flexibility by supporting catalogue and workflow- driven processes, enabling FibreCos to define the decomposition and fulfilment steps for various products based on their requirements. Lastly, problem management and trouble ticketing are essential for smooth service operations. This necessitates a workflow-driven case management solution that can adapt to the FibreCo’s needs and integrate seamlessly with other applications to facilitate the end-to-end ticketing process.
DevOps development and release process. This flexibility allows for easy improvements and product upgrades as partners’ needs change. By enabling easy integration and adapting to existing processes and legacy systems in this way, the right BSS will help facilitate the successful launch of a FibreCo. SCALABILITY FOR BUSINESS EVOLUTION
When launching a FibreCo, operators often find that they lack essential capabilities within their IT landscape and require flexibility in their systems to address this. They need a BSS solution to help them generate revenue while scaling their operations. For example, if a new FibreCo doesn’t have a proper service activation layer, the BSS could serve as a light Service Order Management (SOM) system to fill that gap. Alternatively, the BSS could introduce appropriate manual processes via workflows or bypass specific steps altogether if a workforce management system is missing. As a FibreCo grows, it must automate additional capabilities, fully integrate with new and existing systems, and expand its BSS functionality. Therefore, having a solution that can evolve to meet these changing requirements is crucial for accelerating the timeline to revenue while building an efficient business. Operators will encounter several investment challenges when launching a FibreCo. The initial investment in the network itself is substantial, and adding considerable IT costs can pose a barrier to entry for some. They will need a cost-efficient solution, particularly in the early stages when the FibreCo has yet to generate revenue. Instead of investing in “one-size-fits-all” BSS, operators should instead seek a flexible provider that can adjust the pricing of their BSS, allowing them to pay as they grow. This approach enables them to defer significant upfront investments until their FibreCo is successful.
Fiber enablement solution. Image: ZIRA-Group.
solution is crucial for overcoming the challenges of implementing infrastructure, integrating with partners and customers, and scaling the business as it grows. A wholesale “BSS-in-a-box” solution, which includes pre-configured processes, workflows, catalogue data models, and best practices, will enable FibreCos to integrate across the entire fibre ecosystem. This streamlining can lead to a more efficient operation that maximises revenue. Additionally, with comprehensive support for fibre processes, FibreCos can cater to demand from partners of all sizes, accommodating a variety of business models ranging from large operators to small resellers. With the right BSS solution, FibreCo operators can effectively convert their fibre infrastructure into revenue. By overcoming numerous delivery and management challenges and significantly reducing time to market, they will be positioned to seize the opportunities presented by delayering, particularly in the fibre sector.
EASY INTEGRATION AND ADAPTABILITY
A BSS must be open to a FibreCo’s partners and channels, enabling them to utilise its capabilities and seamlessly integrate with its broader IT and network ecosystem. It should comply with TM Forum and LSO standards, facilitating straightforward integration with external and legacy IT applications such as ERP financial systems, device management, and logistics. Additionally, the BSS must be adaptable to meet the specific needs and processes of the FibreCo. A FibreCo’s capabilities should be accessible through APIs via a partner API Gateway. This setup will streamline operations for all parties involved and support a self-service partner portal tailored to the FibreCo’s infrastructure. This portal will enable partners who seek quick time-to-market to manage orders, tickets, and bills effectively. Furthermore, configurable business processes and workflows – from product portfolio setup to business rules for order capture, fulfilment orchestration, and trouble ticketing - can significantly reduce time-to-market. The BSS should also be able to create product extensions and configurations through a continuous
SEIZING THE FIBRE OPPORTUNITIES
As the market rapidly expands, many operators find pursuing a delayering strategy and owning a wholesale FibreCo attractive. However, rolling out the physical infrastructure can be challenging in itself. Managing the complex elements of the wholesale business presents additional, significant challenges. Despite these difficulties, adopting an appropriate approach to both IT and business can unlock substantial and ongoing growth potential. A dedicated wholesale BSS
Merima Žiko, Product Director, ZIRA
www.opticalconnectionsnews.com
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ISSUE 40 | Q1 2025
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