One of Telefónica España’s most recent and promising technological advances has been the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into network planning processes. A solution that has already demonstrated its impact by transforming processes, reducing human error and accelerating service availability for customers, as well as optimizing the allocation of resources in fiber deployments in rural areas.
Artificial intelligence at the service of efficiency
Traditionally, estimating the layout and costs of network deployment in rural areas was a complex process, with many variables that were difficult to predict. Conventional tools were not always able to identify physical obstacles such as rivers or hard-to-reach areas, which also increased execution costs.
To overcome these challenges, Telefónica Spain has developed an AI based on genetic algorithms, capable of designing optimal deployment routes from proportionate geographical coordinates. This AI not only calculates the most efficient path, but also estimates the associated cost, considering factors such as the reuse of existing infrastructure and the minimization of civil works.
Intelligent estimation based on design and historical experience
One of the key pillars of this artificial intelligence is its ability to make preliminary estimates of deployment resources and costs accurately and efficiently. This functionality is based on two essential elements: the technical criteria of network design and the analysis of the historical costs associated with previous deployments in areas with similar characteristics.
Thanks to this combination, the algorithm projects new implementations with a solid and contextualized base. By considering previous deployment patterns, geographic obstacles, urban density, and other relevant factors, the tool can more accurately anticipate the resources needed as well as potential challenges.
This approach allows planning teams to make more informed decisions from the earliest phases of the project, reducing the margin for error and better aligning initial estimates with the actual costs that will be faced in the execution phase. In short, it is a predictive and contextualized planning, which transforms the way in which Telefónica approaches the expansion of its network infrastructure, making its process increasingly autonomous, while accelerating the availability of the service for the customer.
“We have transformed the way we plan. Now, with the support of AI, we have better control over cost estimates. This allows us to make better decisions from the first phase of the project, reduce risks and align our planning with real costs much more efficiently.” Elena Sumastre, Manager of Planning and Engineering Fixed Access of Telefónica Spain.
Scalability and Forward-Looking
The algorithm, which is already being used by planning teams, offers potential for use in more areas within Telefónica de España. Use cases include:
- Customer inquiries about deployment costs in specific locations.
- Evaluation of alternative routes and diversification.
- Replacement of radio access with fibre.
- Mobile network planning.
The integration of this solution into other processes will allow you to respond immediately to customer requests, improving the experience and reducing response times.
One more step towards digital transformation
This development represents a significant evolution in the way Telefonica approaches network planning. It’s not just about saving costs, it’s about transforming processes, reducing human error, and accelerating service availability for customers.
“Artificial intelligence marks a paradigm shift in the way we plan our fiber deployments. It turns the complexity of planning into an agile and scalable process, which multiplies the capacity of our teams and accelerates the arrival of fibre to more people”. Daniel Cortés, Fixed Access Manager of Telefónica S.A.
Thanks to the implementation of this artificial intelligence algorithm, Telefónica España has achieved level 4 autonomy in the fiber planning process, which implies an advanced capacity to execute complex tasks in an automated way. This milestone reflects progress within the Autonomous Network Journey (ANJ) program, which seeks to transform the grid into an increasingly smart, autonomous and efficient infrastructure.
“Applying artificial intelligence to FTTH network planning not only optimizes capex but puts us firmly at Level 4 of the TMF framework: autonomous, data-driven decisions that accelerate deployment and maximize business value.” Nilmar Seccomandi, Director of Autonomous Network and Infrastructure of Telefónica S. A.
Artificial intelligence is thus consolidated as a strategic ally in Telefónica’s operational transformation, demonstrating that well-applied technology can generate tangible, sustainable and scalable value, aligned with the company’s digitalisation and automation objectives.
