Three Rules of Success in Building a Cloud-Native Telco

Even as service providers realize the inevitability of moving their networks to a cloud-native environment, they are cautious and apprehensive of the challenges associated with transforming their networks.

Their concerns are justified, as adopting a cloud-native architecture calls for a massive shift and realignment, not just in technology, but also in how telcos typically function. The vast scale of the telco network coupled with complex configurations only adds to the challenge. However, telcos can best position themselves for success in their cloud-native journey by keeping a few considerations in mind:

Addressing workforce challenges

The skill sets required to run the new cloud-native network are significantly different from the existing ones. The networks and IT teams generally work in silos in a traditional service provider, but a cloud-native environment demands a combination of both network and IT skillsets. The telcos need to merge the two teams and realign them to ensure they work in alignment with the evolving requirements. Telcos may need to hire new resources because IT skillsets are required more in a cloud-native environment.

Embracing new models

Historically, telcos have selected one or two network equipment vendors, but in a cloud-native environment, they would be collaborating with new players like Wind River, Red Hat or VMware, who provide an underlying platform. The telcos should be mindful of the commercial models that go along with the support and the licensing model associated with being a perpetual or recurring revenue basis.

Tracking performance boost

The telcos must monitor the change in network performance in the cloud-native environment vis-à-vis the traditional network. Several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can help them track the difference in performance (for instance, the time taken to failover in a cloud compared to a non-cloud environment, or the latency change of the application in a cloud environment).  

A key advantage for a telco to move to a cloud-native environment is to gain visibility of the network which allows them to use analytics to improve network performance and provide a truly differentiated experience to the subscribers. The telcos can also look at full slice assurance where they can monitor the performance of the slice and optimize the network in real-time to meet the slice SLA requirements.  

A cloud-native network opens several new possibilities for the service providers to deliver a differentiated experience and accelerate the launch of new services even as they bring down the total cost of ownership of running the network.  

Mavenir is supporting several service providers in realizing the full potential and benefits of moving the networks to a cloud-native environment. Mavenir’s Bejoy Pankajakshan, EVP, Chief Technology and Strategy Officer, recently spoke with TelecomTV’s Editorial Director, Ray Le Maistre and highlighted the advantages of adopting a cloud-native strategy. He also elaborated on how the telcos can ensure the success of their cloud-native journey. Listen to the complete interview here.