The Next Generation Mobile Networks Alliance (NGMN) has introduced a comprehensive framework for 5G network simplification aimed at helping mobile operators reduce operational complexity, lower total cost of ownership, and support sustainability goals. This new initiative addresses the growing challenges faced by operators as mobile networks become increasingly complex.
The trade body published a document titled “Framework for Network Simplification: An Operator View,” which outlines a high-level reference model for operators at different stages of 5G deployment. The framework is designed to accommodate a wide range of operators, from those with advanced cloud-native 5G cores and extensive RAN rollouts to early-stage operators with primarily LTE-based networks looking to launch 5G NSA.
Leadership Perspective on Network Evolution
“To minimise operational costs, enhance efficiency, and unlock new services over 5G, network simplification must be a core pillar of network evolution strategies, across both architectures and operations.”
Laurent Leboucher, Chair of the NGMN Alliance Board and Orange Group CTO and EVP Networks
Leboucher emphasized that NGMN’s latest guidance provides operators with a clear framework to understand where and how 5G network simplification can be achieved effectively. The initiative represents a collaborative effort from industry leaders to address common challenges in network management and deployment.
Three-Step Approach to Network Simplification
NGMN has proposed a structured three-step approach for achieving network simplification. The first step identifies key trends in technology evolution that operators should focus on to enable simplification in their networks. These critical trends include cloud native architecture, agentic AI, generative AI, federated network services, and the evolution of optical fiber technology.
The second step involves mobile network operators seeking insight into the challenges they will face when adopting identified enablers for 5G network simplification across radio, core, and transport domains. This comprehensive analysis helps operators prepare for potential obstacles and develop mitigation strategies.
For the third step, NGMN advises operators to prioritize the adoption of technology enablers and determine the domains where they will be applied, depending on their specific context and state of network evolution. This customized approach ensures that each operator can implement solutions that best fit their unique circumstances.
Industry Collaboration and Development
The framework was developed through collaboration among employees from major telecommunications companies including BT Group, Liberty Global, China Mobile, Turkcell, MTN, and UScellular, which is now known as Array Digital Infrastructure. This diverse group of industry experts brought together extensive experience from different markets and deployment scenarios.
“Due to mobile networks becoming more complex, operators need to constantly strive to introduce simplification for how they create, deploy, expose and manage their differentiated service offerings for their customers.”
Anita Dohler, NGMN Alliance CEO
Future Outlook for Mobile Networks
As 5G networks continue to expand globally, the need for simplified operations becomes increasingly critical. The NGMN framework provides a roadmap for operators to navigate the complexities of modern telecommunications infrastructure while maintaining service quality and controlling costs. By adopting these guidelines, mobile operators can position themselves to deliver enhanced services more efficiently while meeting sustainability objectives and preparing for future technological advancements in the telecommunications sector.
