Our framework offers telecom operators a strategic guide to optimize processes and enhance competitiveness through artificial intelligence

In our article, “The path to AI-driven autonomous telecoms networks” we explored the main challenges telco operators face as they transition to autonomous networks.

We also examined the six maturity levels defined by TM Forum to assess their progress and highlighted the critical role of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), cloudification, and real-time data analysis in overcoming these challenges.

In this follow-up, we introduce the 6D Framework, a holistic methodology designed to guide operators through every step of this transformation process.

What are the phases of the 6D Framework?

Rooted in agile methodologies and our extensive industry expertise, this approach provides practical pathways to adopting AI, maximizing its impact on network automation.

The 6D Framework comprises six essential phases to help operators advance toward autonomous networks:

1. Discover: Measure the current madurity level

In this initial phase, we evaluate the current state of autonomous network solutions and the operator's infrastructure. This assessment identifies areas best suited for transformation and highlights where AI can deliver the greatest impact. This diagnostic phase lays the foundation for an effective strategy.

2. Design: Define the AI strategy for autonomous networks

This phase focuses on defining a comprehensive AI adoption strategy, prioritizing use cases, and developing a detailed roadmap. The planning process ensures alignment with business goals—such as network optimization or fault detection—while maximizing the overall impact.

3. Deliver: Implement MVPs use cases according toroadmap definition

The Deliver phase marks the execution of the strategic plan’s first steps, bringing minimum viable products (MVPs) to life. We design scalable technical architectures and integrate solutions into existing systems, making rapid adjustments to optimize performance as needed.

4. Develop: Support for the improvement of AI Solutions

Building on the MVPs, this phase focuses on developing complete functionalities and addressing other prioritized use cases. This ensures robust, scalable solutions ready for deployment across broader networks.

5. Detect: Continuous improvement

Operators monitor progress and success through key performance indicators (KPIs) in this phase. These insights feed back into the strategic plan, allowing for continuous improvements and adjustments to maximize the impact of AI-driven solutions.

6. Drive: Governing and managing organizational change

The final phase secures long-term success by establishing strong governance and effectively managing change. This includes defining clear roles and responsibilities while adapting teams to automated processes, embedding the program throughout the organization.

Key areas for AI adoption in telecom networks

Through our work with operators, we’ve identified high-impact areas for adopting AI:

• Network optimization.

• Observability and diagnostics.

• Network planning and design.

• Operations and maintenance.

The 6D Framework has already been implemented in projects like network performance analysis, predictive maintenance, and anomaly detection. These use cases have enabled operators to boost efficiency, cut costs, and improve customer service.

A roadmap to fully autonomous networks

The 6D Framework offers operators a clear roadmap for progressing toward autonomous networks by strategically adopting AI. In a highly competitive landscape, this structured approach is essential for overcoming technical and operational challenges, positioning companies to lead in the telecom industry.

As operators advance toward higher levels of autonomy, the 6D Framework will be an indispensable tool for achieving the agility, resilience, and scalability demanded in the digital era.