New Amdocs Research explores challenges in small cell networks

Amdocs has released a new research that explores the challenges involved in deploying and managing small cell networks, and identifies an opportunity for cable and satellite providers (also known as multiple system operators, or MSOs) to create new revenue streams through partnering with mobile network operators (MNOs) in the rollout of small cells and Wi-Fi networks.

“With mobile data traffic predicted to increase 11-fold from 2013-2018 small cells represent a critical element of an MNO’s strategy to expand mobile network capacity and improve the overall user experience, yet rollout challenges are causing small cell deployment delay. The research has identified that there is a clear business case for MSOs to partner with MNOs. MSOs have valuable skills and experience that can be applied to small cell deployments and MNOs are looking for these skills. However, for small cell rollout to be successful it is widely recognized that appropriate workflow and planning tools are required,” said Charles Chambers, Managing Consultant with Real Wireless.

“Automation tools such as the Amdocs Small Cell solution address the technical challenges cited by service providers and reduce network design and deployment time and costs. While this research indicates that there are many reasons why MSOs should partner with mobile service providers to provide backhaul, automated small cell rollout is also important for MSOs as they expand their Wi-Fi footprint and upgrade their Wi-Fi networks,” said Rebecca Prudhomme, Vice-President of Product and Solutions Marketing, Amdocs.

The survey was conducted in January 2014 by Real Wireless – the leading independent advisory firm on wireless strategy and small cells – and includes 40 national and large regional MNOs, MSOs and converged wireless/wireline operators from North America, Europe and APAC.