Almost every fiber organization we talk to today is looking to meet growing connectivity demands while overcoming complex operational and technical challenges. To deploy networks efficiently and cost-effectively, they increasingly seek integrated, end-to-end software solutions that manage the entire fiber lifecycle - from planning to maintenance - in a single platform. This unified approach addresses several critical pain points, including data fragmentation, coordination inefficiencies, high operational costs, and the limitations of multi-system environments.
A natively mobile, unified platform offers a "single source of truth" that supports real-time data sharing across departments, enabling smoother coordination and faster decision-making. This integrated approach not only improves data consistency and accuracy but also reduces total cost of ownership by eliminating redundant software licenses and minimizing the need for complex, costly integrations.
Key questions for fiber network management software vendors
Given the importance to unify planning, design, construction and operational data and processes within a single platform, it’s essential to ask prospective vendors the right questions about their capabilities. Don’t assume that simply having a Geographic Information System (GIS) in your office means it can support seamless workflows across all phases of the fiber network lifecycle. Many major GIS providers use distinct architectures for their office and mobile solution. This often results in field crews struggling with outdated information. Other times the GIS is integrated into a patchwork of other siloed systems which complicate workflows and require manual reconciliation. This fragmentation results in duplicated data entry, inconsistent reporting, increased risk of errors, and significant delays in network deployment and maintenance.
RFP template for evaluating fiber network management software solutions
Most RFP and RFIs we see from fiber network operators set the bar far too low. The structure of their RFPs maps out “good enough” software that will not provide the unified data management capabilities they need now and into the future. We want to help you set the bar higher. With 157 detailed questions and supporting notes, IQGeo has produced an RFP template in an Excel format that will help you think through the various components of a successful fiber network management system. It is designed to help you align RFP questions with your strategic goals to choose a long-term partner who understands your business challenges and delivers solutions to solve them.
Below are sample sections and questions from the RFP template:
System architecture
This section is designed to understand the fundamental building blocks of the solution, and the devices and operating systems that are supported. You need flexibility to rapidly adapt your hardware and operating systems for future requirements, to quickly deploy new configurations as requirements change, and to reduce the need to have multiple applications to cover different phases of the network lifecycle.
Cloud hosting
Cloud hosting of critical system infrastructure is a desirable deployment option for many organizations. It provides the ability to scale IT resources up and down with demand, reduce capital and operational costs and support rigorous compliance, security, and resilience standards. Even if you’re not planning a cloud deployment today, it’s still critical to select a solution with an architecture that is cloud ready for the future.
Applications
This section explores if there are a set of business focused tools that you can plug in to expand the usability of the solution. Having a single platform and interface for multiple applications helps avoid application fatigue – having to use many different apps to complete a task.
Network management
This section explores if there are a set of fiber network management focused tools that you can plug in to expand the usability of the solution.
Configuration, customization and administration
This section explores the critical features that should allow you to deploy a system rapidly to the field and control the total cost of ownership.
Workflow management
This section explores if there are a set of workflow management focused tools that you can plug in to expand the usability of the solution.
+ 8 other sections, including Version and design management, Data integration, Security, Production support and more.
Free mobile geospatial RFP template
Whether your organization is new to purchasing fiber network management software or you're looking to switch from your existing provider, this RFP template will help to ensure you ask the most important questions. We hope you find this a useful resource in selecting the right solution and partner that fits your unique requirements and business goals.