LAS VEGAS–Four regional carriers in the U.S. are working with Ericsson to realize the cost and performance benefits associated with moving network operations management to the network infrastructure vendor’s cloud-based solution. The launch partners for Ericsson’s Network Management as a Service are Chariton Valley, East Kentucky Networks, Carolina West Wireless and Cellcom.
Ericsson North America Head of Networks Kevin Zvokel told RCR Wireless News said the new solution will help smaller operators “evolve into new technologies and keep their costs under control.” He said the platform combines data analytics to optimize network operations as well as manage high priority customers. “Chariton Valley going to the first step of the virtualized network management allows them to get into the next phase, which is the big data environment. That leads to the next step, which is machine learning and artificial intelligence.”
Ericsson describes the product as supporting risk management, network performance, resourcing, operational efficiency, security, availability and evolution to 5G.
Steve Berry, president and CEO of the Competitive Carriers Association, highlighted how the solution helps smaller carriers. “Many rural and regional operators in the United States are challenged with offering their customers robust wireless services while operating efficient and profitable networks. Ericsson, a long-time CCA member, continues to demonstrate a deep understanding of the regional operator space, and solutions like this one will help carriers to stay competitive with larger operators.”
Amy McCune, Head of Customer Unit Regional Carriers for Ericsson North America, said in a statement: “Ericsson’s Network Management as a Service allows regional operators to focus on their core business while offering their customers the services they expect. We have worked with regional operators for many years and have built a deep understanding of their business needs, making us a natural partner as they continue to evolve and modernize their networks.”
