Letter from the Editor - Network Transformation
There is something unique about transformation that distinguishes it from simple change. To change, only one part of a system has to become different. Transformation, on the other hand, is
steeped in the specific purpose of reinventing the system itself.
Natural transformation occurs as a system—over time—eventually evolves into something new. But to intentionally transform is much more difficult. To intentionally transform, one must possess
clarity, purpose and vision. One has to have a clearly defined image of what is and what one wants it to become. Then, they must design and execute a detailed strategy of how it is to occur.
There are a number of examples within our industry to illustrate this point. The move from voice to VoIP was evolutionary, as was the evolution from 3G to 4G mobile connectivity. In fact, both
are still occurring. I would argue further that neither example was done with a specific intent to holistically transform, but rather with the intent to simply change in the hope of
surviving. At the same time, companies such as Amazon, Facebook, Skype and Uber—we have all heard the list spouted countless times—set out to reinvent an existing system, and in some cases
entire industries. But that's transformation.
There is a certain finality to transformation. The caterpillar is no longer a caterpillar; it is a now a butterfly. You no longer go to the mall, you just log into Amazon Prime. You don't hail a
taxi, you simply get an Uber with few taps on your smartphone. So, how does all this relate to the theme of this month's issue of Pipeline? I'm glad you asked.
This month, we take a look at the topic of network transformation and the very definition of what networks have become. Historically, networks were pieces of equipment linked by physical
connections. Cables and switchboards eventually morphed into soft switches and Ethernet cables. Today, a network can be virtually anything, if you pardon the pun. Networks can be physical,
wireless, virtual, or any combination of these. They can be located on overhead poles, underground, under the sea, in outer space, in the cloud, on many pieces of equipment, just one, or even on
a chip.
In addition, the industry is now standing upon the threshold of transformation. Many of these topics we've covered and will continue to cover throughout the year within the issues of
Pipeline. But, the advent and adoptions of these new technologies—such as 5G, IoT, cloud, software-defined networking, AI, and many others—stand to change everything. And it all begins
with the network, and the clarity, purpose, vision, intent, and plan to transform.
In this issue of Pipeline, we explore network transformation from multiple angles to help you with your transformation strategy. FiberLight shows us how dark fiber is being used to transform enterprises. Unitas Global walks us down the path to cloud transformation. EdgeConneX talk to us about rearchitecting the internet to contend with the new digital economy. Connected2Fiber shows us how to
use location intelligence as the foundation for digital
transformation. Ribbon Communications tells us how Communication Platforms as a Service
(CPaaS) can be an opportunity for service providers. Global Convergence Solutions (GCS) share what network transformation means in 2020 and beyond; and Bandwidth provides insights to help you prepare for new 911 regulations that go into effect this year. All this, plus a digest of the latest industry news and more.
As always we hope you enjoy this and every issue of Pipeline,
Managing Editor
Pipeline
