“Digital transformation in Telecom: new chances for operators in a data-centric environment”

The world is driven more and more by (data) communication, but at the same time the existence of many independent operators is at stake. In order to survive they have to develop a new business model that enables them to implement new products and services for which the ‘all connected’ consumer is willing to pay. Providers that adapt their portfolio and business model to new trends and are able to safeguard the privacy of the all-connected consumer are most likely to survive. This is the main conclusion of a White Paper of Atos that identifies the main trends in telecom. This White Paper builds on Atos’ scenario planning of 2013 in which data as a digital currency has been estimated as the most likely scenario.

Atos believes that a transformation towards data will be at the core of new business models. In order to realise this, operators have to develop a strategy focussing on diversification and adapt their prices models of networks.

The connective society and chances for operators

In the survey Atos gives an overview of promising products and services for which the consumer might be willing to pay and that serve as a guideline for operators for the development of a new strategy. These can be health monitoring apps, smart cars connected with their environment, intelligent domestic electronics (domotica) or providing a personalised online experience. New products in the field of mobile payments, online travel information, services for online authentication, secure data (storing personal data in the cloud) and ‘smart calling’ (via Skype, Lync, voice text or 3G/4G) are emerging as well. Atos estimates that consumers are more willing to make their personal data available in exchange for tailor-made products and services, provided that their autonomy to choose who can use which data will be respected.

The operator as broker

“These developments offer a lot of new possibilities for operators. They are in the unique position to withdraw value from this value chain. As a result of their extensive client base and their relation with the ‘all connected’ consumer they are able to fulfil the role of trusted information broker at a commercial basis,” states Bruno Fabre, EVP Telecom, Media and Technology markets. Michel van Buitenen, Managing partner Telecom of Atos Consulting: “Operators have to bridge the gap and bring new products and services to the consumer. They have to adapt their portfolio by integrating social media, mobility, data analysis and the cloud and by focusing on the personalisation of services. The ‘all connected’ consumer is more and more aware of his digital identity and the way data are being used. Operators can develop a strong profile as broker and trusted partner that safeguards the privacy of consumers. Atos can support operators during their digital transformation and enable them to reposition themselves”.

About Atos

Atos Consulting is a leading international business and IT consultancy employing over 2,500 driven professionals worldwide. Atos Consulting is a partner for clients looking for effective solutions in order to optimize their return on investment, organisation, processes and control. The company offers an in-depth knowledge of branch specific, primary processes as well as supporting processes, such as Finance, HRM and IT. Moreover, Atos Consulting provides interim management or take over complete processes. Atos Consulting is an independent, highly specialized consultancy and co-operates closely with clients.

Atos Consulting is an independent entity of Atos SE (Societas Europaea), an international information technology services company with 2013 annual revenue of € 8.6 billion and 76,300 employees in 52 countries. Serving a global client base, it delivers IT services through Consulting & Technology Services Systems Integration, Managed Services as well as BPO and transactional services through Worldline, the European leader and a global player in the payments services industry. With its deep technology expertise and industry knowledge, it works with clients across different business sectors: Manufacturing, Retail & Transportation; Public Sector & Health; Financial Services; Telcos, Media & Utilities.

Atos is focused on business technology that powers progress and helps organizations to create their firm of the future. It is the Worldwide Information Technology Partner for the Olympic & Paralympic Games and is listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris market. Atos operates under the brands Atos, Atos Consulting, Worldline and Atos Worldgrid.