Andrew Walker, communications and media industry lead at Accenture, discusses the challenges faced by telcos transitioning to the public cloud, the transformative power of GenAI, and strategies for attracting skilled cloud talent. Topics include Accenture's advice on starting the move to the public cloud, legacy vendors spreading uncertainty, AI in telco, and competing for cloud talent.
Telcos face challenges in transitioning to the public cloud, including legacy networks and application stacks.
Generative AI has the potential to transform telco operations by automating processes and utilizing trapped data.
Deep dives
Talko CTOs recognize the importance of scaling and innovating on the public cloud
A report from Accenture reveals that 85% of Talko CTOs consider scaling and innovating on the public cloud crucial for a modern network. However, the transition is challenging due to multiple legacy networks, old application stacks, and the need to maintain critical services without disruption. Lift and shift approaches and focusing on business problems are recommended strategies for Talko's move to the cloud.
Legacy vendors and their FUD tactics hinder Talko's transition to the public cloud
Legacy vendors, motivated by maintaining revenue streams and technical debt, spread fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) about the public cloud. This impedes Talkos from adopting cloud solutions and delays their cultural transformation. Startups like Ttoki are challenging the status quo, introducing competition and the much-needed change in the telco industry.
Generative AI drives transformative change in telcos
Generative AI is viewed as a disruptive force in the telecommunications industry, enabling telcos to utilize trapped data and transform their operations. By automating processes, such as call center note-taking and permitting forms, generative AI enhances efficiency and empowers telco employees. Telcos are advised to embrace this transformative technology and adopt a business-focused approach to innovate and monetize their networks.
Telcos seek strategic approaches to attract software and cloud talent
Telcos recognize the need for software and cloud talent but face challenges in competing with tech and cloud giants in terms of compensation. However, telcos are finding creative solutions, such as establishing development centers in lower-cost regions and embracing remote work to tap into a globally remote talent pool. Thinking outside the box is essential to attract top talent in the evolving telco landscape.
Telcos are finally heading to the public cloud and industry leaders are excited about its potential. But at the same time, old-fashioned thinking and technology are slowing them down. For this episode, I talk with Andrew Walker, communications and media industry lead at Accenture, about why the move is challenging, the transformative power of GenAI, and what telcos can do to get the right talent in place to help with the journey.
Listen now to hear:
How Accenture advises clients to start their move to the public cloud [03:46];
Why legacy vendors spread FUD—fear, uncertainly, and doubt—about telco and the public cloud [06:22];
Where Accenture sees AI taking hold in telco [11:11], and
How telcos can compete for highly skilled cloud talent [15:05].
Andy likes skiing at Snowbird; I love Deer Valley. Snowbird is known primarily for its deep-powder skiing and snowboarding, whereas Deer Valley is known for its beautiful, sunny weather on fresh, powdery snow (and no snowboarders!). I like to attack the mountain by working all blue and groomed black runs, from left to right. I ski with a map and a pen so I can mark off the runs as I go!
Think you’re a great skier? Check out one of the most insane ski runs you’ve ever seen that even goes through a cave. It’s bad ass.
You can find the transcript for this episode here.
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This week’s guest
About Andrew Walker
As Communications and Media Industry Leader, Andy is responsible for the strategy, offerings, and business, as well as the network of professionals who serve Accenture’s Media and Communications clients around the world. Andy has consulted with communications, media and high tech clients for more than 20 years, and has advised leaders across the industry on issues ranging from their fiber strategy, to the profitability of their customers and products, to margin improvement efforts. Andy has been an advisor on multiple mergers, acquisitions and divestitures across the industry, and has helped a number of clients launch new businesses, including new wireless, technology services, and segment-specific businesses.
Podcast Credits
Executive Producer and Host: Danielle Royston, TelcoDR