Tech & AI LIVE London: Alper Benli on AI-Powered Cloud

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Alper Benli from Ericsson explores the role of AI in unlocking the full potential of 5G networks, focusing on strategies for creating AI-native organisatio

During his keynote at Tech & AI LIVE London, Alper Benli, Head of Transformation and Strategic Programs for Europe and Latin America at Ericsson, discussed how AI is transforming the telecommunications industry. 

Alper highlights the explosive growth of 5G, noting that in 2023 alone, there were 1.6 billion global 5G subscriptions, with 219 communication service providers (CSPs) launching commercial services. “5G remains on track to become the fastest-adopted mobile generation in history,” he explains.

However, Alper stresses that maximising the benefits of 5G requires an “AI-native” approach. This means making AI a central priority, with top-down commitment from executives and a business-aligned roadmap that unites different functions and teams. 

He describes AI-native organisations as those that reimagine their operating models and continuously innovate their relationships with customers, partners, and employees.

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Key building blocks for AI-native organisations

Alper outlines the foundational elements of AI-native organisations, beginning with executive ownership. 

“AI needs to be a top-down priority, starting from the CEO and embraced by all C-level leaders,” he emphasises. He explains that a successful AI strategy must be built on a comprehensive, business-aligned roadmap, involving the right stakeholders to set priorities and avoid isolated projects.

One of the core benefits of AI in telecoms is the optimisation of networks, leading to self-healing and self-optimising capabilities. Alper highlighted AI’s potential to improve areas such as security, sustainability, and customer service. 

“AI enables digital transformation by providing personalised services, enhancing customer experiences, and boosting operational efficiency,” he notes.

Alper Benli, Head of Transformation and Strategic Programs for Europe and Latin America at Ericsson

Prioritising AI investments and use cases

To explore current trends, Ericsson conducted a survey of 132 service providers, finding that 70% of CSPs identified network planning as the area with the highest return on AI investments. 

This was followed by network performance management and SLA management. According to Benli, the primary focus for many CSPs is on reducing operational costs through AI-driven optimisation.

While emphasising the importance of long-term planning, Alper introduces four key stages of AI adoption: experimental, visionary, professional, and monitoring. He advises CSPs to assess their current stage and develop a structured plan to move forward. 

“It’s essential to know where you are in this marathon,” he says, urging businesses to define their goals, collaborate with partners, and ensure data quality.

Alper warns against waiting for the perfect “killer use case,” advising organisations to focus on collaboration and incremental improvements. “Stop searching for a killer application—focus on scaling collaboration and making AI a priority,” he advises.

Alper Benli, Head of Transformation and Strategic Programs for Europe and Latin America at Ericsson

Overcoming challenges and embracing transformation

Alper acknowledges several challenges in achieving AI-native transformation. He points to the complexity of telecom networks, which often include a mix of legacy systems and new technologies. 

Additionally, data privacy and security concerns must be carefully managed, particularly as AI enables the processing of vast amounts of network data. 

“We have a lot of data, but we’re not leveraging it enough,” he cautions.

To address these challenges, Alper stresses the importance of executive alignment, cross-functional collaboration, and continuous stakeholder engagement. 

He highlights the need to modernise IT systems, decommission outdated technologies, and invest in advanced monitoring tools to streamline operations.

Beyond technical challenges, Benli emphasises the importance of change management and re-engineering organisational processes. 

“We must not overlook the people aspect,” he says, explaining that successful transformation requires a holistic approach that includes restructuring teams, roles, and responsibilities to align with new AI capabilities.

Alper Benli, Head of Transformation and Strategic Programs for Europe and Latin America at Ericsson

Building the future of telecoms with AI and cloud

Looking to the future, Alper expresses optimism about the transformative potential of AI in telecoms. He predicts an increase in AI use cases, particularly in areas like predictive maintenance, autonomous networks, and beyond-5G applications. 

“We’re building the foundations for future technologies,” he states, noting that AI will play a key role in achieving the low latency and high data speeds promised by 6G networks.

Alper concludes by encouraging collaboration and innovation within the telecom industry. He urges CSPs to work together to create connections, redefine business practices, and build a sustainable future. 

“The future will be a place of collaboration and innovation,” he says, reinforcing the need for a unified approach to drive meaningful change.

Alper Benli’s keynote highlighted the importance of AI-powered cloud transformation in the telecommunications industry. By prioritising AI, embracing collaboration, and addressing key challenges, CSPs can unlock the full potential of 5G and position themselves for success in an AI-driven future.

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