Photo courtesy of Smart Communications
By Alithea De Jesus
Proving its technological prowess, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has clinched the 2020 Asia Communication Awards (ACA) for network automation, with the deployment of an advanced data-driven site analytics solution at Smart Communications – the wireless unit of the Philippines’ largest integrated telco and digital services provider, PLDT. In times of COVID-19, this Artificial Intelligence (AI) solution provides advanced insights to network teams, increasing operational efficiency, and enhancing network user experience, whilst reducing the number of monthly site visits.
Deployed in 10 countries globally, this is an online web-based and mobile app diagnostic tool that collects real-time data, allowing field technicians to work remotely and independently, as well as to make better and faster decisions. Armed with quick access to additional network information, network operations teams are empowered to be more proactive, and to prevent imminent network issues with advanced troubleshooting capabilities.
Debbie Hu, Head of Network Operations, Smart Communications says, “Ericsson’s site analytics solution is easily accessible, convenient and easy to use. It is also very practical, especially in the current pandemic, as it allows our teams to perform contactless and effective network diagnostics offsite. We are already seeing promising results with a 20% decrease in the number of site visits made monthly.”
With data-driven analytics, network operations teams are also better prepared before reaching onsite. Equipped with a prior understanding of the potential issues as well as the right tools, the teams are able to localize faults with more precision, saving considerable time and effort while also increasing productivity and safety levels.
Martin Wiktorin, Head of Ericsson Singapore, Brunei and Philippines continues, “We are honored to receive this regional recognition at the ACA for our AI-powered site analytics solution. Networks have become more complex and dynamic with data traffic increasing exponentially. As most of our activities move online, the current pandemic has also highlighted the importance of strong network performance to ensure seamless connectivity”.
Today, the ultimate goal of network operations is to ensure secure and always-on networks, as optimal user experiences has become the key differentiator for telco operators globally.
“We now need to transition from reactive to preemptive operations, to ‘predict and prevent’ instead of spending time to ‘find and fix’. With over 30 years of presence in the Philippines, our objective is to combine global and local expertise to enable network operations teams at the frontlines to be at the forefront of technology,” continues Martin,
According to Ericsson’s research, almost 50 percent of consumer network perception is based on personal experiences of the network, indicating the huge importance of network quality as the key to customer satisfaction.