Introduction
As we delve into the network configuration and change management (NCCM) landscape in 2023, several macro factors are influencing the market trends. Advances in technology, especially automation and artificial intelligence, are transforming the way organizations manage network changes and configurations. Furthermore, regulatory and compliance pressures are forcing companies to adopt more robust NCCM solutions. In addition, changes in customer behavior, such as the demand for better customer experience and seamless connectivity, are influencing the demand for agile and efficient network management practices. These macro trends are important to understand for any stakeholder looking to navigate the complexities of the NCCM market and seize growth opportunities.
Top Trends
- Increased Automation in Network Management
In the field of network configuration and change management, automation is becoming increasingly essential, and companies such as Cisco are already implementing AI-driven solutions. A study by a research company found that 70 percent of companies are investing in automation to reduce manual errors. Expectations are that this will improve the efficiency of operations and reduce response times. In the future, more complex AI systems may be able to predict and prevent network problems.
- Emphasis on Cybersecurity Integration
Considering the increasing threat of cyber attacks, it is essential to integrate network security with network management. Governments are demanding stricter compliance with security regulations, and 60% of companies have increased their investment in network security. This trend is causing vendors to offer solutions that combine network management with security features. It may lead to the development of a single platform that integrates both functions.
- Cloud-Native Network Management Solutions
In the cloud-native world, the management of the network is changing. Oracle is leading the way. Research shows that 65% of enterprises are now deploying cloud-native solutions to achieve greater scalability and flexibility. This trend is enabling a new way of managing distributed networks. It will also foster the emergence of hybrid solutions that combine on-premises and cloud capabilities.
- Focus on Compliance and Regulatory Standards
Various new regulations such as the European General Data Protection Regulation and the American Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act are forcing changes in network management. According to a survey, 75 percent of network managers have compliance as the most important goal of their network strategies. This trend is putting pressure on vendors to develop tools that help ensure compliance with these regulations. In the future, the automation of compliance reporting may be included in network management solutions.
- Enhanced User Experience through Network Insights
The quality of the service is becoming a focal point, with companies focusing on gaining insights into their networks in order to improve service delivery. Companies like Solarwinds are providing tools that enable visibility of network performance. They have found that companies using these tools have seen an increase in customer satisfaction of up to 40%. Eventually, it may be possible to offer a more individualized service, based on the behavior of individual users.
- Adoption of Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
The use of SDN is increasing as companies seek more flexible network configurations. According to a recent survey, 55% of enterprises are experimenting with SDN to enhance their network's flexibility. This trend is enabling faster deployment of changes to the network and reducing the time spent on downtime. SDN is expected to become more popular and to be used in combination with AI for more intelligent network management.
- Integration of IoT in Network Management
In the network management, the proliferation of IoT devices is affecting the strategy. Seventy per cent of organizations want to integrate IoT into their networks. The resulting increase in traffic and complexity has led to the need for robust management solutions. Future developments may include the development of dedicated tools for managing IoT networks.
- Rise of Edge Computing Solutions
Edge computing is transforming network management by bringing processing closer to the sources of data. A recent survey shows that 60% of enterprises are investing in edge computing to reduce latency. This trend is increasing the value of real-time data. In the future, more integrated edge management tools will simplify the management of distributed environments.
- Collaboration Tools for Remote Network Management
The growing need for collaboration tools in network management is driven by the increasing use of remote working. According to a survey, 80% of IT departments already use collaboration platforms to manage their networks remotely. The trend is to improve communication and the efficiency of remote teams. In the future, this may lead to integrated platforms that combine network management with collaboration features.
- Data-Driven Decision Making in Network Management
In the management of the communication network, the use of data is becoming more and more important. In a recent survey, 75% of companies use data analysis to optimize their network. This evolution leads to a more pro-active management. In the future, the use of advanced predictive analysis tools will allow to foresee network incidents.
Conclusion: Navigating the Network Management Landscape
NETWORK CONFIGURATION AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN 2023: A VERY COMPETITIVE MARKET HELD BY HEAVY COMPETITORS AND LARGELY FRAGGED BY EITHER ESTABLISHED AND NEW PLAYERS IT WILL BE A MARKET WITH A LARGE AMOUNT OF INTERESTS AND ENTRIES RUNNING IN ALL DIRECTIONS. The established players are deploying their installed customer base and integrating newer technology, while the newcomers are concentrating on providing new solutions that focus on sustainability and flexibility. As the market develops, the ability to deliver robust automation, intelligent insights based on machine learning and flexible frameworks will be key for vendors who want to be leaders. Strategically, the decision-makers must assess these capabilities in order to adapt their offering to the changing market.