An operations support system (OSS) refers to an IT or computer system that communications service providers (CSPs) use to manage their networks and, along with business support systems (BSSs), serve customers. The main focus of an OSS is supporting network operations through management functions such as network inventory, service provisioning, network configuration, and fault management. BSSs support customer-facing activities for most CSP services. Traditionally, revenue management, customer management, product management and order management have been the core set of BSS processes.

The need for effective management of hybrid physical and virtual networks is among the top reasons why CSPs need a modern OSS with the capability for end-to-end service orchestration spanning different network domains and distributed infrastructure. Network virtualization and “cloudification” is a multi-year journey; the advent of 5G is likely to accelerate adoption of fully virtualized and cloud-enabled networks. CSPs' need for a unified OSS that can assist with management of physical and virtual network functions and cloud-native functions is driving investments in next-generation OSSs and associated IT systems.

The transition to 5G dramatically increases the complexity of CSP networks. Significant underlying changes to the network architecture and the emergence of new operational and business models in 5G are expected to influence OSS transformation. For example, as CSPs adopt cloud-native core network functions and implement new network slice management architectures, they will have to use new functional components (management functions) to manage 5G service orchestration and delivery. It is therefore critical that CSPs adapt their operations and monetize networks in new ways for 5G success.

This Frost & Sullivan study examines the growth opportunities for BSS providers, particularly in 5G. It will outline the 5G use cases that CSPs must support and discuss how BSSs must adapt to support emerging market needs. Detailed profiles of three leading BSS providers are included.

Author: Vikrant Gandhi