How Agile Telcos Are Approaching Zero-Touch Network Automation
Agile Telco, Friday, September 11th, 2026
Zero-touch network automation stalls on telcos' legacy operating models and culture rather than technology, with only 6% at advanced levels.
Analysys Mason found 87% of CSPs have started using AI in network operations, but only 6% have reached advanced automation, and Gartner warns over 80% of full network automation efforts will be abandoned by 2028.
The article argues the barrier is structural: waterfall delivery, siloed teams, legacy OSS/BSS and manual change management.
Operators making progress adopt agile operating models with cross-functional ownership, iterative delivery, visible C-suite sponsorship and integrated DevOps and NetOps practices.
Analysts cite large cost savings and new revenue for operators that can deploy and iterate quickly.