INDUSTRY FOCUS
INDUSTRY FOCUS
Future-proofing is the process of anticipating the future and developing methods of minimising the effects of shocks and stresses of future events. future-proofing via needs analysis
Future-proofing is used in industries such as electronics, the medical industry and industrial design, and, more recently, in design for climate change. Future-proofing within fibre deployment is vital in property development, and components with residential offerings specifically need to conduct a critical needs analysis before selecting their fibre partner and internet service provider. This is pertinent to saving on all levels, and ensures an environment built to last for generations − one that is open, flexible and scalable, but also specific to current needs.
The future is here, and anything that has an IP can and will be done over fibre. This is termed“ converged services”.
The parties involved should work through the following guidelines before choosing a solution.
WHAT DOES THE ESTATE OR DEVELOPMENT REQUIRE FIBRE TO THE HOME FOR?
Internet Voice / phone lines A true open-access model Intercom or free calling within the estate or building Access control – either biometric or using a tag CCTV security TV services Prepaid metering Energy control and power management
All of these services can be deployed over the fibre network.
Once the developer, homeowners association( HOA) or bodies corporate has decided on the current requirements and a wish list for the future, step two is to engage with the service providers in the market that will have to comply with the converged service model required.
THE POTENTIAL SERVICE PROVIDER OF THE CONVERGED SERVICE NEEDS TO ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:
Can the service provider offer everything that is required? What are the costs to the developer or HOA? What is installed free, and what is the development paying for? Does the converged service provider have accredited installers? What solution are they providing( GPON, EPON or point-to-point)? Is there a required demand uptake for the free installation? What are the terms of the service level agreement( SLA)? What are the associated homeowner levies per month, per unit?
What is the once-off installation and / or activation fee? Is there an early-exit clause?
The estate should issue an request for proposals( RFP). Based on the proposals received, you can make an informed decision