The telecommunications industry is evolving rapidly, driven by the growing need for scalable and agile networks. Adopting an open, cloud-native, horizontal architecture has become essential for reducing costs, enhancing competitiveness and driving innovation. However, as this year’s Analysys Mason Open Network Index (ONI) survey highlights, progress often stalls without precise operational alignment and strong ecosystem partnerships.
The ONI, developed by Analysys Mason and Dell Technologies, benchmarks the transformation strategies of 50 Tier 1 network operators globally. It evaluates their alignment with open networking principles and technical maturity in implementing these architectures. By combining data on strategy and execution, the index identifies both strengths and challenges in the shift to open operating models.
With pressure mounting from hyperscalers and digital-native disruptors, communications service providers (CSPs) must act decisively to future-proof their networks against increasing complexity. The ONI provides actionable insights to help CSPs benchmark their progress, develop transformation strategies and maintain competitiveness in a rapidly changing telecom landscape.
Progress and Challenges in Open Networks
The 2025 ONI results show steady progress as CSPs move toward open networks, with 74% having open network architecture plans and 62% with operational plans. The gap between aspirations and execution is closing, driven by increased adoption of cloud-based networks and horizontal cloud platforms. Confidence in open networks’ performance and reliability continues to grow.
This year, CSPs are shifting from experimentation to execution, increasing investments in open network projects. Notable growth includes a 41% increase in cloud-based 5G standalone (SA) core deployments, a 30% rise in Open RAN and a 100% jump in edge use cases like Fixed Wireless Access and massive Machine Type Communications. Additionally, automation, AI and orchestration are proving strategic for reducing manual workload and accelerating deployment.
Regional leaders remain in North America, developed Asia-Pacific and Western Europe. However, challenges persist. Less than half of CSPs have deployed 5G SA core, and under 25% have deployed Open RAN. Barriers include CapEx/OpEx pressures, vendor ecosystem limitations, skillset gaps and security concerns, underscoring the complexity of scaling open network transformations.
Transformation Followers are Closing the Gap
The momentum of leading CSPs in network transformation has slowed, as they face unexpected complexities and costs in scaling open network strategies and cloud operational models. Operational challenges with multi-vendor mobile core and Open RAN networks have led many to recalibrate their approaches, emphasizing the need for refined strategies and solutions. Meanwhile, several follower CSPs are accelerating their deployment plans, but their progress may uncover similar challenges, reinforcing the complexities of scaling open network transformations.
Advanced CSPs leading in open network transformation share several key traits:
- Strong executive sponsorship for open network initiatives
- Comprehensive alignment of open network architecture and operational roadmaps
- Adoption of horizontal cloud architectures unified by automation
- AI integration to maximize automation and efficiency
- Collaboration with neutral IT and system integration (SI) partners for planning
- Active engagement in open networking initiatives to influence industry roadmaps
- Investment in skill development for cloud computing and AI
Strategic adaptability and collaboration remain critical for CSPs to overcome barriers and realize the opportunities of open networks.
Addressing Key Challenges with the Open Telecom Transformation Program
The Open Telecom Transformation Program, introduced earlier this year, empowers CSPs to simplify and accelerate their transformation and help overcome challenges identified in this survey. By addressing technological needs and operational, organizational and cultural shifts, the program offers a holistic approach to overcoming key industry challenges.
It provides tools, best practices and reference architecture to streamline operations, reduce risks and speed up time-to-value. CSPs using DevOps models and CI/CD pipelines have already reported faster integrations and fewer setbacks. The program highlights the critical need for alignment between business, operations, and IT, with success stories serving as practical guides for early adopters.
Dell also emphasizes skill development, offering targeted training to equip teams with expertise in managing open network technologies. Additionally, partnerships across vendors, CSPs and industry bodies are encouraged to foster interoperability and sustained innovation.
The Open Telecom Transformation Program empowers CSPs to unlock the full potential of open networks, driving both short-term efficiencies and long-term adaptability in a rapidly evolving telecom landscape.
Act Now to Shape the Future of Telecom
Transformation isn’t optional; it’s essential for creating tomorrow’s intelligent, software-defined networks. The evolving ONI guides the industry from isolated innovations to scalable deployments that drive real business value.
Telecom transformation is critical and complex, but the Open Telecom Transformation Program makes it achievable and sustainable. By partnering with Dell, CSPs can enhance efficiency, align transformation goals and unlock new revenue opportunities.
Start your transformation today and lead the open network revolution. Discover more about the Open Telecom Transformation Program and take the first step toward redefining your network.
