Customer and network operations for broadband and narrowband access networks

Effective operations of today's access networks based on intelligent, computer-controlled network elements is a key issue. Due to the increased complexity of operation and the cost pressure in a competitive telco environment, a possible answer for these challenges is the introduction of sophisticated network operations (network management) technologies. On the other side, the costs of customer operations in connection with access networks are also very substantial. Any improvement in this field can increase the capabilities of the access operator to maximize the revenue stream. Another issue is that in the near future all operators will be forced to introduce next-generation customer operation systems simply to be able to survive. This article discusses the general issues of both access network management and customer operations in a tutorial manner.