Economic benefits of SON features in LTE networks

Initial configuration and on-going optimizations of the Radio Access Network (RAN) are significant expenses for Wireless Service Providers (WSPs). Investments in skilled technicians and engineers as well as test tools are required to ensure a high-performance network. Self Organizing Networks (SONs) minimize the lifecycle cost of running a network - they make it more economical to deploy, operate and maintain. SONs also allow for automated optimization of radio network performance by balancing capacity and coverage based on dynamic demand that help reduce service outages and increase customer satisfaction. The ability of SON features to automate many RAN operational activities is a key to the commercial success of Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems. In this paper, we outline a method for quantifying the economic benefits of SON, clearly showing how individual features contribute to reducing costs and present a case study for commercial adaptation of SON in the industry.