Customer case

Automation of Fiber Deployment processes

Tue 01 Oct 2024

A fiber infrastructure operator in France aimed to improve and automate the monitoring tools for fiber deployments by various infrastructure and commercial operators. With rigorous methodology and deep technical engineering expertise, our Sofrecom experts were able to provide substantial advice to strengthen its market position. This article details the context and need, the methodology used, and the benefits to the client. 

Project context & Customer needs

In France, the regulatory framework distinguishes commercial operators, who provide services to end customers, from infrastructure operators, who deploy the fiber local loop and make it available to commercial operators. The fiber infrastructure operator sought Sofrecom's help to enhance and automate its deployment and performance monitoring tools. 

The main objectives pursued by the operator were to 

  • Produce weekly and monthly FTTH dashboards to monitor the deployments of commercial and infrastructure operators. 
  • Ensure the feeding and maintenance of the data repository. 
  • Collect, clean, and integrate data files to produce reports.  
  • Monitor the migration to a new data repository, performing double runs and qualifications. 
  • Respond to on-demand analysis requests.  

Solutions & Methodology provided by Sofrecom 

Analysis & Design

  • Initial evaluation: A comprehensive evaluation of the existing tools and specific needs of the operator was conducted. This included analyzing database management systems, querying tools, and statistical techniques used (Excel, SQL). 
  • Requirements definition: The project requirements were clearly defined, considering data security issues and specific Business Intelligence (BI) needs, including the use of PowerBI and ETL Talend. 

Operations

  • Dashboard Development: Weekly and monthly dashboards were designed to provide a clear and precise overview of the deployments. These dashboards enable effective tracking of the performances of commercial and infrastructure operators. 
  • Process Automation: The processes of data collection, cleaning, and integration were automated. This helped reduce human errors and improve overall efficiency. 
  • Data Migration: Data migration to a new repository was carried out in two stages: double running to ensure operational continuity and qualification to guarantee the accuracy of the migrated data. 
  • Validation tests: Rigorous tests were conducted to ensure that all developed tools function correctly and meet the defined requirements. This included performance and data security tests. 
  • Client validation: All developed solutions were validated in collaboration with the client to ensure they meet its specific expectations and needs. 

Change Management

  • User training: End users were trained in the use of the new tools and dashboards. This training facilitated the quick and effective adoption of the implemented solutions.   
  • Ongoing support: Continuous support was provided to resolve any potential issues and ensure that the tools continue to function optimally. 

Customer benefits

The solutions provided by Sofrecom consultants brought several important benefits to the fiber infrastructure operator in France

  • Improved efficiency: The production of dashboards is now faster, allowing for more effective and timely decision-making. 
  • Data security: Data security concerns were addressed, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of information. 
  • Business continuity: The migration to the new data repository was accomplished without regression, ensuring business continuity and user satisfaction. 
  • Responsiveness: The developed tools enable quick responses to specific analysis requests, offering greater flexibility and responsiveness.  

The project conducted by Sofrecom for the fiber infrastructure operator in France is a perfect example of how rigorous methodology and technical expertise can transform a company's operations. By improving efficiency, security, and responsiveness, the support of our FTTH network consultants has enabled our client to better meet market challenges and strengthen its competitive position.