Cost Transformation Feature Editorial

Creating an Optimized Service Migration Strategy to Minimize Downtime

By Susan J. Campbell, TMCnet Contributing Editor

As technology is constantly moving and changing, consumers are demanding more from network operators and service providers. As these demands increase, so does the pressure on the provider to meet needs, provide content and speed up delivery. This is much easier said than done and the provider must be able to implement a strategy to meet current demands.   

With any internal changes, there are risks and potential consequences. In making changes in service, there is always a need for downtime to complete migration. And, while minimum downtime may be acceptable, it still must be quick. Simply deciding to implement a service migration strategy is not enough – it must be optimized to minimize downtime and protect the customer base.   

Some IT managers within the operation may find this laughable considering he or she is already dealing with budget constraints and reductions in available bodies to help make the migration successful. In addition, the organization is concerned about the return on investment and decision makers often want to do more with less.   

The good news is that confidence, key market intelligence and proven business modeling techniques can help the provider to make smart, sustainable investments. Alcatel-Lucent (News - Alert) offers the Cost Transformation Program to deliver an optimized service migration strategy. The company draws on its extensive transformation experience to offer comprehensive business modeling, testing, launch and go-to-market strategy services.   

One of the biggest challenges for network operators and service providers today is the rapidly increasing demand for bandwidth. Simply increasing capacity is not enough as this leads to an increase in overall maintenance and management costs. With a High Leverage Network, the operator can leverage a more cost-effective way to put bandwidth where it is needed, while also relying on fewer resources.   

The dynamic bandwidth management capabilities ensure the operator can intelligently allocate available network assets, while also quickly providing the necessary bandwidth wherever it is required to deliver reliable performance. This is essential in an area where downtime is a threat and service delivery drives revenues and creates customer loyalty.   

The Quality of Experience (QoE) is also essential for the customer as switching to another provider is just too easy. To deliver the QoE, the provider must be able to meet consumer demands for reliable, easy-to-use multimedia services that can be delivered anywhere, over any device that takes advantage of personalization and innovative features.   

The Cost Transformation Program enables the service provider or network operator to make rational decisions that reduce costs and make cash available for new solutions that deliver sustainable long-term value. This focus is essential to optimize the service migration plan to achieve ultimate success in this space.
Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMCnet and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Erin Harrison