The Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN) Alliance claims ‘pole position’ in addressing major operator and ecosystem issues.
The Alliance stresses it is driven by operators, and intends ” to provide value, guidance and leadership to its members and the whole ecosystem in: mastering the route to disaggregation; sustainability and green networks; and 6G.
Anita Doehler, CEO NGMN (pictured), says: “We have streamlined our Work Programme to focus on these three extremely relevant topics to deliver significant impact in 2021 and beyond. At the same time, we remain committed to further support 5G’s full implementation.”
Route to disaggregation
Operators need to prepare operating models built on orchestrating ecosystems of partners. This means all those involved must be sufficiently open and flexible to integrate new partners and technologies, and develop diverse sets of skills and capabilities to drive value and efficiency.
NGMN’s new Work Programme will look to develop an end-to-end operating model, considering key aspects including the processes, technology, tools and skill requirements.
It will provide blueprints and guidance for industry players and outline the roles and opportunities provided by disaggregation.
The initiative aims to shorten time to market and provide support in the selection and deployment of efficient operating models by mobile operators.
Green networks
Operators need new techniques to run more energy efficient networks as the number of users, connected devices and usage continue to grow.
The ICT network consumes the most energy in the content delivery process, and electricity is the principal source of greenhouse gas emissions.
The programme will also address reducing wasted energy, and the eco-design of products and equipment.
The NGNM reckons by consolidating a common view among operators and collaborating with equipment vendors and others will result in “a significant industry contribution in achieving UN and GSMA sustainability goals”.
Driving 6G
Work beyond 5G has started worldwide and NGMN believes that societal and operational requirements need to be considered in the development of the new generation.
Its 6G Work Programme focuses on vision and drivers, including societal and operational aspects of 6G. This work will be followed by use cases and end-to-end system requirements.
By engaging with stakeholders and “facilitating multilateral cooperation with the wider ecosystem at the right time”, NGNM wants to help in defining what 6G should be and drive its successful implementation.
NGMN plans to publish the first version of its 6G Vision & Drivers White Paper around the end of Q1 this year.
Interested parties are invited to join NGMN in these initiatives.