Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) collect large amounts of data from their network, but the use of the data collected is what really counts. MNOs main use of collecting subscriber and network data is to be able to produce valuable insights on customer experience, customer behavior and network performance. But there is so much more operators can do to make accurate business decisions that generate more revenue, fight competition, and build on customer quality of experience (QoE), according to ABI Research (http://www.abiresearch.com).

Research analyst Sabir Rafiq comments: "MNOs and Communication Service Providers (CSPs) are actively looking into Big data and analytical solutions. They need tools that can impact their businesses and find new ways to reduce costs, improve efficiency of the networks, increase and generate new revenue streams, and increase QoE."

He adds: "Big data analytics are no longer the exclusive province of IT Software, as leading telecom vendors such as Astellia, Ericsson, Nokia Solutions and Networks, and Huawei have stepped up. Software vendors, including Citrix and Guavus, offer big data and analytical solutions to help telecoms collect and analyze data effectively.”

Key aspects of a successful mobile big data analytics offering include the ability to easily identify the key data sets, hook them efficiently and retain relevancy, according to ABI Research. The most successful implementations will start with a clear understanding of the project goals and will be tailored to individual needs. It is imperative that Telcos and Telecom providers understand that it is not one-size-fits-all but they take a more customer-defined and results-driven approach.