The race to 5G and future-generation networks has brought to the forefront the need for cloud-native solutions. Telcos recognize that to achieve the promised cost savings and service capabilities, a transformation of their businesses is necessary. Cloud-native isn’t just a technological shift; it represents a profound change in the way telcos operate and deliver services.
From NFV to Cloud-Native
The failure of network function virtualization (NFV) to challenge hardware-based telecoms network infrastructure has paved the way for cloud-native. NFV trials didn’t yield the desired results, leading to a realization that a new approach was needed. Telcos now understand that cloud-native holds the key to unlocking the full potential of 5G and future networks.
The Complexity of Cloud-Native
Cloud-native solutions bring about a level of complexity that may strain in-house technical talent. The transition from traditional infrastructure to cloud-native systems requires specialized knowledge and skills. Telcos must carefully evaluate whether their teams are equipped to handle the intricacies of cloud-native or if external resources need to be leveraged.
The Role of Software Engineering in Telecom Transformation
To meet their ambitions as Digital Service Providers (DSPs), telcos must be at the forefront of their software engineering game. Software engineering proficiency becomes paramount when adopting cloud-native solutions. Hasan Jafri, VP of platform engineering at Telus, emphasizes the importance of platform engineering—a set of guidelines building upon the principles of DevOps—to establish best practices, tools, and building blocks for a successful cloud-native migration.
Bridging the Gap Between Development and Operations
Platform engineering represents a crucial component of the telco transformation journey. This approach goes beyond development and operations, encompassing a broader spectrum of concerns. By adopting platform engineering, telcos can establish a structured framework that simplifies the transition to cloud-native systems. It empowers teams to collaborate effectively and optimize workflows for improved efficiency and resilience.
Opportunities for Building and Maintaining Software Engineering Platforms
As telcos grapple with the challenges of cloud-native adoption, there is an opportunity for players with the necessary scale, resources, and talent to provide software engineering platforms. These platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools, support, and guidance to assist telcos in their transformation journeys. By collaborating with external partners, telcos can accelerate their cloud-native endeavors and focus on their core competencies.
Embracing third-party API interactions and expanding network capabilities
Telcos understand the importance of opening their networks to third-party application programmable interfaces (APIs). By prioritizing these interactions, they can foster innovation, enable new services, and create more value for customers. Additionally, telcos are actively working on interworking and extending their fabric into other fabrics. This approach enhances their network capabilities, allowing for seamless integration with different ecosystems.
Collaboration and integration challenges
The complexity of cloud-native environments may present integration challenges, particularly for telcos with limited in-house technical talent. These telcos may need to lean on external partners to overcome the integration hurdles and leverage their expertise in navigating cloud-native landscapes. By collaborating with experienced providers, telcos can better address interoperability concerns and accelerate their transformation initiatives.
For telcos to unlock the full potential of 5G and future-generation networks, embracing cloud-native solutions and fostering a culture of software engineering excellence is critical. Telcos must recognize the challenges posed by cloud-native complexity and take strategic measures to address them. Whether through platform engineering, collaboration with external partners, or prioritizing third-party API interactions, telcos can pave the way for a successful transformation. The industry is at a turning point, and those telcos who invest in cloud-native solutions and cultivate their software engineering capabilities will become the innovators and leaders of the future telecom landscape.