Rapidly emerging technologies such as 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) have made today’s telecommunication networks incredibly complex environments. As new use cases for these technologies emerge, that complexity can only deepen – making sophisticated IT solutions for telecommunications essential for every operator. In this respect, telecom products such as operations (or operational) support systems (OSS) and business support systems (BSS) are the foundation of optimal network, service and business operations.
OSS and BSS in telecom networks
It’s worth taking a look at what the terms OSS and BSS actually mean in the context of IT telecommunications solutions.
As the name suggests, an OSS is responsible for how a network runs. It combines software and hardware to control all elements of the network, and to constantly monitor, analyze, scale, heal and configure in terms of network performance, fault management, assurance, inventory and service provisioning.
BSS, on the other hand, manages the relationship between the telecommunications service provider and the customers. This handles things such as billing, charging, revenue management and payments, as well as products and order catalogs, contracts and customer relationship management. The right BSS will be capable of generating reports that are easy to read, often presenting data in graphic format to aid business planning and analysis.
It is crucial that a telco’s OSS and BSS are integrated, acting as end to end IT solutions for telecommunications. What’s more, every aspect of OSS and BSS in telecom operations should utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver the highest level of automation and “zero-touch” management.
Implementing IT solutions for telecommunications
On one hand, no telco can survive in the digital era without world-class BSS/OSS. On the other, it’s clear that a great many network elements (software and hardware) and a high level of complexity are involved in BSS/OSS overhauls and implementation.
That’s why it’s a good idea to partner with a BSS/OSS provider who specializes in this field. Take time to analyze the market, because your ideal partner in this respect will go far beyond the basics of OSS/BSS deployment.
Look for a provider who will guarantee you full support in terms of consultancy and manging your BSS/OSS transformation end to end, as they will be able to guide you on every step of the journey. Such a provider should be able to assist you in analyzing your current situation and needs, and give advice on improving efficiency while reducing costs, regardless of the complexity of your network and plans for the future.
Which means that all you need to do is get on with the job you are best at – growing and maintaining your business.