Influence of GMPLS on network providers' operational expenditures: a quantitative study

GMPLS is promoted as a major technology for the automation of network operations. It is often claimed to allow the reduction of operational expenses. However, detailed analysis and quantitative evaluation of the changes induced by such technologies is very rare. In this article we quantify the cost reduction potential of GMPLS. We present a detailed analysis and modeling of traditional operator processes. We also develop a model for the expected changed processes when using GMPLS and identify the differences quantitatively. A survey with major telecom operators has been done, and the process models have been verified and parameterized. This allowed quantitative evaluations of the OPEX changes with GMPLS. The results show that, depending on the network operator's processes, different impacts can be expected. As an overall result we could verify that a reduction on the order of 50 percent of OPEX can be expected for most operational models.