Clearing the way: 2012 Outlook for telecom network decommissioning

July 2012
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Clearing the way: 2012 Outlook for telecom network decommissioning

At a glance

Telecom operators continue to upgrade their network technologies to meet consumer demand while maintaining multiple generations of different technologies. A PwC study found that many have begun to decommission legacy networks or are working on such a strategy.

Wireline and wireless communications networks are becoming an even more critical part of the fabric of our society worldwide. As telecom operators around the world continue to upgrade their network technologies to improve performance and capacity to meet increasing consumer demand, many of them are confronted with the challenge of maintaining multiple generations of technologies and networks and have begun to prepare for the decommissioning of their legacy networks.
 

During March and April of 2012, PwC conducted a global study of the outlook for the decommissioning of telecommunications networks. We surveyed executives worldwide at telecommunications operators to understand drivers, plans, readiness, and key concerns associated with network decommissioning.
 

A few highlights from the survey:

  • Nearly 90% of wireline operators and over 60% of wireless operators surveyed indicated that they intend to decommission legacy networks during the next five years.
  • While 73% of wireline network operators reported that they have decommissioning strategy and plans in place, this is in sharp contrast to the wireless network operators where only 48% have established strategies and plans.

Download the report to learn more.