Healing the OSS Wounds in the MSO

Process Transformation

• Develop the metrics for the new systems model to motivate people involved in the new OSS.
• Align processes with new functions, such as the Configuration Management Database, and work with the business to show productivity benefits.
• Align CSR conversations with the new data readily available.

Organizational Transformation

• Moving toward a logically (even physically) centralized NOC provides network architecture, oversee operations and provide off-hours coverage for local NOCs.
• This approach allows for standardized best practices and centralized change management, improves quality and cuts costs by reducing complexity, simplifies data replication, speeds up disaster recovery and allows for consolidation of systems and equipment.

The idea of OSS transformation is not new, but a truly practical approach for achieving it certainly is. eTOM and SOA put the MSO in an enviable position — able to imagine a radically better way of working and armed with the framework and architecture to realize that vision.

This is not to say that OSS transformation is easy. In fact, it’s a large-scale effort requiring skills in planning and execution; in process redesign, package and systems integration; in risk management and change management. But competition will not be easy with telcos coming on strong and customer demands increasing. The launch of the Cable Interest Group at the TM Forum represented a coming together of the industry to define how OSS can be built right, the first time, without the need for band-aids. It is time to heal the backbones of MSOs and ensure the industry is stronger than ever.

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