Organisational development for the cloud-native Platform-as-a-Service project

The project develops a hybrid platform combining private and public cloud for the software developers of the corporate group, aimed at accelerating software development and delivery in the energy sector.

We were selected as a contractual partner through an EU-wide tender.

The project scope requires a large number of specialised developers in different roles and at different levels, working in parallel and in a structured, interdependent manner. To lead and coordinate them, we develop and establish a dedicated organisational structure. We support the development of processes, roles and responsibilities, as well as the continuous further development of the organisational structure throughout the ongoing project.

• Support in the development of project processes and workflow standards
• Development and management of role descriptions and responsibilities
• Alignment with stakeholders on project processes and guidelines for roles and responsibilities
• Maintenance and further development of the organisational chart
• Coordination of administrative workflows, formal requirements and budget compliance with Finance Office
• Advisory support for product lines during structural changes

Freelancer provision as part of the Management Services and Business Consulting Services for the cloud-native Platform-as-a-Service project

The project develops a hybrid platform of private and public cloud for the software developers of the corporate group, to accelerate software development and delivery in the energy sector.
We were selected as a contractual partner through an EU-wide tender. Our task is to propose specialised freelancers and to manage the freelancers selected by the client throughout the contract.
Based on a requirements profile submitted by the project manager defining the required skills, tasks and timeframe,  we source candidates and propose a suitable person.

• analysis of resource requirements and specialist requirement profiles
• sourcing suitable freelancers through contractually bound subcontractors, direct approach, or open search
• preparation and submission of qualified candidate proposals for participation in the client’s selection process (Mini-Competition)
• contract-accompanying management of deployed freelancers throughout their individual project duration

We have provided freelancers for the following profiles:

• Product Manager (Senior)
• Project Manager (Senior)
• Data Domain Architect (Senior)
• Data Core Services Architect (Senior)
• Software Engineer (Senior)
• Process Manager (Senior)
• Process Manager (Junior)
• CAD Support (Junior)
• Technical Project Manager Datacentre Architecture incl. Architects
• Technical Project Manager Datacentre Building Services Engineering (BSE) incl. BSE Planners

Development, execution and coordination of procurement and management of financial and human resources for the cloud-native Platform-as-a-Service project

The project develops a hybrid platform combining private and public cloud for the software developers of the corporate group, aimed at accelerating software development and delivery in the energy sector.

We were selected as a contractual partner through an EU-wide tender. Our role is to ensure the timely and on-budget procurement of hardware and software, to coordinate the provision of human resources (> 400 consultants) and to continuously provide financial project data (project volume > €250 million) to the project management.

• establishment and execution of financial reporting including status reporting and forecasting
• coordination of procurement requirements
• budget review with functional leads prior to approval of procurement processes
• creation and management of purchase requisitions in the ERP system
• tracking of order status, goods receipt and service delivery
• ensuring quality of documentation, schedule adherence and transparency
• reporting on procurement status and budget consumption
• process development, execution and documentation of personnel procurement for over 400 consultants with 17 framework contract partners across 7 lots
• design of data structures and data management for project controlling and reporting
• analysis of existing data and identification of data quality improvement opportunities
• database development including optimisation, backup and recovery strategy development
• technical coordination of data integration from various sources to ensure a consistent and consolidated overview of project data
• compliance advisory for data security and regulatory adherence
• coordination of documentation of data structures, metadata and processes
• coaching of Finance Office Manager

Management Consulting with focus on finance, controlling, service development and marketing

Management support for finance, controlling, service development and marketing

• member management board for finance, controlling and marketing
• conception and implementation of Controlling
• product analysis and evaluation within the training and coaching service industry
• validation market analyses
• development of market strategies and products in the B2B and B2C segments

Provision of project management and project leadership for the construction of a new datacenter within an existing building in the state of Brandenburg

For the construction of a new datacenter with 30 IT rack positions and a connected load of 1.5 MVA within an existing building, we provided the project lead and project manager. We managed the project from requirements gathering through planning and implementation, commissioning of all trades, and handover to operations.

• Project management (overall responsibility) and project coordination
• Stakeholder management
• Establishment of project structure and organisation
• Budget planning and control, including rolling forecasts
• Risk management as risk owner
• Requirements gathering and baseline definition
• Management of building services (TGA) planners
• Procurement coordination
• Construction management (power connection, strip-out, raised floor, suppression system, cooling, UPS, emergency generator, fibre optic cabling)
• Preparation and management of commissioning and handover to operations
• CAD documentation

Project manager for IT infrastructure, coordination, commissioning and integration for the following trades:

• Installation of the IT infrastructure
• Installation and commissioning of cabin switches
• Installation and commissioning of the telephone system
• Installation and commissioning of the WiFi system
• Installation of satellite antennas
• Commissioning of the cabin automation system

The services were provided in Papenburg at the Meyer Werft shipyard and at the outfitting berth in Eemshaven. They included coordination with the client, the shipyard’s representatives, the client’s representatives and other on-site service providers.

As Interim Head of the Datacenter Division, we built up the division, consolidated previously decentralised areas of responsibility and oversaw the development of additional sites.

• Building the datacenter team (role descriptions, work instructions, process definitions, service descriptions)
• Restructuring and consolidating responsibilities across the datacenters (building services, cooling, network, housing, power supply, monitoring)
• Supporting the introduction of DCIM (Datacenter Infrastructure Management)
• Consolidation of IT infrastructure across multiple sites
• Establishing a co-location site
• Coordinating external service providers (network, power, cooling, building services, monitoring)
• Building an interim container datacenter
• Aligning construction and renovation measures with all stakeholders
• Planning and implementing lifecycle processes
• Management reporting
• Improving processes for inventory management and procurement

Project Management, Project Leadership and PMO for the IT Security Platform Project

We provided the project manager, a project management professional and the PMO, and managed the full project budget of €12 million in SAP. The project was responsible for a comprehensive overhaul of the critical IT infrastructure (KRITIS) to meet regulatory requirements.

• Planning, managing and delivering projects within the IT Secure Infrastructure Platform (ITSI) environment
• Interface management between business, IT and external service providers
• Building and developing the PMO, including reporting structures, methodology and quality assurance
• Project management for platform integration transformation projects (e.g. data consolidation, dashboard design, KPI definition)
• Managing requirements and providing technical input on architecture decisions
• Coordinating cross-functional teams and running project committees and stakeholder workshops
• Ensuring adherence to time, budget, quality and governance standards across the project environment
• Planning and executing the migration of legacy systems into the IT Secure Infrastructure environment
• Procurement of hardware and software for the project in SAP

Project Management for a Redesign Project of the Critical IT Infrastructure (KRITIS)

We served as project manager for IT Infrastructure 2.0, driving the redesign of the critical IT infrastructure (KRITIS).

• Project management for the implementation of the new design of the critical IT infrastructure (KRITIS)
• Establishment of project structure and organisation (incl. handbook, organisational chart)
• Initial cost, schedule and resource planning; rolling budget and timeline forecasts
• Schedule and quality monitoring of internal and external sub-projects
• Risk management as risk owner
• Coordination of all project-wide activities and interfaces
• Reporting to the programme steering committee, incl. approval coordination with governance bodies
• Development and implementation of the communications concept (incl. lessons learned)
• Coordination of resource and staffing requirements with line management
• Coordination with PMO; definition of requirements for project documentation and document management
• Procurement of hardware and software for the project in SAP

Project leadership on behalf of the client and project management for the planning of two new datacentre builds, each with a connected load of 5.5 MW

We assumed overall project leadership with decision-making authority on behalf of the client, along with full project management responsibility.

Due to an originally ambitious timeline, we immediately prepared a complete planning approval submission (HOAI service phases I–IV) with a team of specialists of up to 20 FTE and filed the building permit applications. The building permit procedures were completed successfully.

The requirements of all stakeholders for the datacentres were reviewed and aligned repeatedly throughout the project.

In parallel, we prepared and conducted an EU tender for general contractor services. Following negotiations, this tender was withdrawn by the client. The scope was changed to a split procedure separating general planner and general contractor services. We revised the tender documents for the general planner services and supported the award negotiations. After the conclusion of negotiations, the client withdrew the EU tender for general planning and decided on a modular datacentre strategy (MDC strategy).

Our engagement concluded with the delivery of the specification document for an EU framework contract tender (volume approx. €90 million) for the supply of MDC units including planning, construction and commissioning.

• overall project leadership on behalf of and in the name of the client
• project management
• requirements management and feasibility assessment
• budget planning and control
• execution of stage-gate process
• management of architects and MEP planners
• management of building permit planning
• management of building permit procedures
• specification writing, support of EU tender and negotiation for general contractor
• specification writing, support of EU tender and negotiation for general planner
• specification writing for framework contract for the supply of modular datacentres (MDC)

Programme and Project Management with our own team for the modernisation of communications technology and communications-related services

We supported the programme management of the TSO in the modernisation of its entire communications technology infrastructure. The build-up of a new IP-based telecommunications network to secure future operations and compatibility with the requirements of the German Renewable Energy Act (EEG), e.g. offshore wind farms and HVDC, was carried out as a programme with several parallel projects. Within the programme, we modernised approximately 170 operational sites across 115 locations and executed approximately 1,900 service switchovers, including the migration to IP during live operations. Technologies involved: IP-MPLS, IP, DWDM, SDH, PDH, Voice, Fibre Optic, Power Supply, Metering.

Key projects:

• Planning and implemenation of a new Network Management Center
• Build-up of NMC (Network Management Centre)
• Network modernisation rollout including service switchover
• Power supply conversion
• Decommissioning, disposal and footprint optimisation
• Takeover of operational responsibility including insourcing of operations
• Concepts, processes and manuals for newly established organisational units for planning, implementation and operations
• Framework agreements and tenders
• Contract management
• Databases / Interim CMDB

The project team comprised 10 internal and up to 17 external staff. More than 100 internal and 200 external staff were involved in the project at various stages.

• support of programme and project management
• project planning and overall coordination of implementation
• risk management, stakeholder management
• communications planning
• consulting on the modernisation concept (IP-MPLS, IP, DWDM, SDH, PDH, Voice, Fibre Optic, Power Supply, Metering) during live operations without interruption of power grid services
• management of the turnkey service provider and additional subcontractors
• takeover of operational rollout management for service switchovers
• planning and build-up of a network management centre
• preparation, negotiation and management of the full takeover of operational responsibility for the telecommunications network from the previous operator
• strategy, concept, organisational and process development for planning, implementation and operations of the new network
• establishment and management of PMO and PO including development of project-specific methods and management tools
• design and programming of operational support tools, e.g. interim CMDB
• development of applications and data interfaces for automated data transfer and creation of standard reports and specific use cases, e.g. planning and execution of service switchovers
• support in the selection and implementation of a network documentation system (NDS)
• specification writing, framework contract specification, EU tendering and negotiation (e.g. TDM modernisation, voice communications, installation services)
• preparation of regulatory submissions to the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA)

Support of management in founding and running a company, seed investment

Support of management in founding and running a company, seed investment

• advising of founders, authorised signatory of GmbH
• support business planning
• assistance with company registration
• support in marketing, product development and sales in the B2B / B2C segments
• support controlling

Planning, coordination, commissioning of

• Data Center Build Out of 2 IT rooms
• CCTV Camera Deployment
• Cabin Switch Deployment
• Phone Installation
• WiFi AP Deployment
• SAT Deployment
• Stateroom Automation System

on board of the new build Silversea Origin built by Shipyard de Hoop, Lobith, The Netherlands.

We worked in Lobith at the Site Office and in Rotterdam at two outfitting locations. We especially liked Rotterdam where we really got to know the other teams and parties working on site. This is always the best about these projects!

By the way: These were our first SAT antennas to be installed!

The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer, and subcontractors. The IT Infrastructure was handed over to the client of our customer.

• project management and coordination
• reporting
• data management and analysis
• subcontractor management
• rollout management

Representation of project manager on site for installation and commissioning IT-network (incl. WLAN, IP-TV, IP-telephonie for app. 2.300 cabins) on board of the cruise ship newbuild AIDAperla (Hyperion-Class) built by Mitsubishi Heav Industries, Ltd.

That’s is the sister ship and we were back in Japan! Our Job was the same: We acted as a stand in for the project manager in Nagasaki when the real deal had to go home. On his behalf we were coordinating tasks and requests of the client, subcontractors and other parties involved. The second ship was smooth sailing. Furthermore, we coordinated the rollout of IP-TVs and IP-phones on board. The IP-network and all applications were handed over to the final customer sucessfully.

• project management and coordination
• reporting
• subcontractor management
• rollout management
• claim management

Representation of project manager on site for installation and commissioning IT-network (incl. WLAN, IP-TV, IP-telephonie for app. 2.300 cabins) on board of the cruise ship newbuild AIDAperla (Hyperion-Class) built by Mitsubishi Heav Industries, Ltd.

That was our first AIDA cruise liner. Getting the chance to work in Japan! We acted as a stand in for the project manager in Nagasaki when the real deal had to go home. On his behalf we were coordinating tasks and requests of the client, subcontrators and other parties involved.
Furthermore, we coordindated the rollout of IP-TVs and IP-phones on board. The IP-network and all applications were handed over to the final customer sucessfully.

• project management and coordination
• reporting
• subcontractor management
• rollout management
• claim management

Rollout Management for IP-TV Commissioning in app. 2.450 cabins on board of the cruise ship Costa Diadema (Dream Class) built by Fincatieri S.p.A

Our assignment included the planning, preparation and rollout of the IP-TVs on board. We were in contact with our client, the yard and all parties involved on site. It was fun and we had the nicest weather during our short time in Venice. We found only the positive prejudices about Italy confirmed. It was such a pleasure! Next time we do it for free … maybe.

• rollout planning and preparation
• rollout management
• subcontractor coordination
• reporting

Modernisation, Upgrade and De-Installation of PoP- and Core Sites (IT rooms), Conception, Writing of Specifications, Support for RfPs, Introduction of a new maintenance service for technical spaces all over Germany

Our client gave us the responsibility to renovate, upgrade and de-install certain PoP- and core sites in Germany. We coordinated all necessary activities and subcontractors. We also supported contract negotiations for technical spaces and infrastructure.

Regarding the mainentance of technical spaces we were asked to develop the details for a new service. Together with our client, we put together the necessary organisation and processes. When everyone was happy we started the implementation: writing the service specifications, supporting the contract negotiations, preparing the data base, bringing the whole thing to life. For the first year, we took over the implementation of the service and the training of the chosen general subcontractor.

• project management and coordination
• maintenance conception
• writing of specifications
• contract negotiations support
• data management
• reporting
• subcontractor management
• maintenance management (planned maintenance, repair, inspection) of technical rooms

Planning, coordination, configuration, commissioning and integration of app. 3.100 IP-phones and 530 IP-DECT-phones on board of new build cruise ship Celebrity Reflection (Solstice Class) built by Meyer Yards

We did the planning in Hamburg and in our yard office in Papenburg. The configuration of the IP-DECT-phones was carried out at night in our rental apartment. We had the best landlords ever! Where we also prepared the test protocols for IP-telephony (VoIP: Cisco; IP-DECT: NEC). The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer and subcontractors. We hired our own subcontractor to bring out the IP-phones and program them. We made sure all preconditions were met in time in order to perform all acceptance tests as scheduled.
In the end, we handed over the IP-phone-network including all IP-phones and applications to our client’s customer.

• project definition, planning, management
• reporting (in-house / external)
• customer relationship management
• planning and supervision of rollout – on site at the yard and at sea
• customer hand over of VoIP-system

Program management to coordinate the nationwide rollout of TETRA base stations and access network for digital mobile radio for public authorities and organisations with safety related tasks only

We advised regarding network planning and rollout as well as planning and coordination of measures in areas such as network aggregation and optimisation. Another topic was the introduction of fault management for the TETRA-network with specified Service Level Agreements (SLA).

Furthermore, methods and tools for project management and controlling were drafted and introduced. The program included the coordination of regional teams. We were responsible for the nationwide subcontractor coordination, for the reporting system and quality control.

Another responsibility was process devlopment for planning, implementation and operation. Also proposals for organisational optimisation were made and harmonised with the requests from the public authority team.

• program management
• project management and coordination
• program reporting (in-house and external)
• development of methods and tools
• subcontractor management
• rollout management
• data management and analysis
• process development for planning, implementation and operation

Planning, coordination, configuration, commissioning and integration of app. 3.100 IP-phones and 530 IP-DECT-phones on board of new build cruise ship Celebrity Silhouette (Solstice Class) built by Meyer Yards

We did the planning in Hamburg and in our yard office in Papenburg. The configuration of the IP-DECT-phones was carried out at night in our rental apartment. We had the best landlords ever! There we also prepared the test protocols for IP-telephony (VoIP: Cisco; IP-DECT: NEC). The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer and subcontractors. We hired our own subcontractor to bring out the IP-phones and program them. We made sure all preconditions were met in time in order to perform all acceptance tests as scheduled.
In the end, we handed over the IP-phone-network including all IP-phones and applications to our client’s customer.

• project definition, planning, management
• reporting (in-house / external)
• customer relationship management
• planning and supervision of rollout on site at the yard and at sea
• customer hand over of VoIP-system

Planning, coordination, configuration, commissioning and integration of app. 3.100 IP-phones and 530 IP-DECT-phones on board of new build cruise ship Celebrity Eclipse (Solstice Class) built by Meyer Yards

Most of the planning was done in Hamburg. We also prepared the test protocols for IP-telephony (VoIP: Cisco; IP-DECT: NEC). The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer and subcontractors and device configuration on board. We coordinated the sub contractor to bring out the IP-phones and program them. We made sure all preconditions were met in time in order to perform all acceptance tests as scheduled.
In the end, we handed over the IP-phone-network including all IP-phones and applications to our client’s customer.

• project definition, planning, management
• reporting (in-house / external)
• customer relationship management
• planning and supervision of rollout on site at the yard and at sea
• customer hand over of VoIP-system

Planning, coordination, configuration, commissioning and integration of app. 3.100 IP-phones and 530 IP-DECT-phones on board of new build cruise ship Celebrity Equinox (Solstice Class) built by Meyer Yards

Most of the planning was done in Hamburg. We also prepared the test protocols for IP-telephony (VoIP: Cisco; IP-DECT: NEC). The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer and subcontractors and device configuration on board. We coordinated the sub contractor to bring out the IP-phones and program them. We made sure all preconditions were met in time in order to perform all acceptance tests as scheduled.
In the end, we handed over the IP-phone-network including all IP-phones and applications to our client’s customer.

• project definition, planning, management
• reporting (in-house / external)
• customer relationship management
• planning and supervision of rollout on site at the yard and at sea
• customer hand over of VoIP-system

Delivery, exchange and integration of damaged Cisco-LAN/WAN- and VoIP-components aboard a 120m luxury yacht

Due to water damage on board all IT- and multimedia systems had to be replaced. The overall IT-system was rebuild (staged) and configured in our staging room in Hamburg. We had to make sure that the installation and integration of all systems on board at the yard in Kiel went smoothly as the timeframe was limited to 16 hours.

• analysis / identification of tasks to be carried out
• clarification of terms and conditions
• coordination and supervision of suppliers
• supervision of installation and configuration on board
• customer relationship management

Project management to replace the Kirk-/Polycom-DECT-system on board of the Celebrity Solstice to Cisco Wifi (Voice over WLAN) while the ship was fully operating

The Solstice was our first cruise liner. It got us hooked. We found the environment and the way of working at the yard and on board very special. The project management included the close coordination with our client, the final customer, the yard, the crew on board, the hotel management staff, several logistic operators, port agents … you name it. The project was sensitive as it was to be carried out without disturbing the passengers. New cables were pulled at night by subcontractos. The de-installation of app. 200 DECT-access points and the installation of app. 350 WLAN-access points in passenger areas took place at night also or whilst at harbour. The new WiFi-system had to be fully integrated into the existing voice system. Acceptance testing had to be repeated under closed conditions.

After handover to the final customer a comprehensive WLAN-survey was carried out as well.

• project management
• reporting (in-house and external)
• data management and analysis
• technical and project documentation
• sub contractor coordination
• rollout management
• claim management
• site survey

Project Management for sub sections LAN/WAN, WLAN, VoIP for newbuild of a huge yacht in private ownership (160m length, world wide largest yacht at that time)

The infrastructure for LAN/WAN, WLAN- and VoIP was staged in Hamburg and fully configured. The installation and integration of each system happened in parallel on board at the yard while the ship was built. The assignment included the coordination with all parties involved such as yard, client, final customer and subcontractors and device configuration on board and rollout management on board as well.
The project challenge was the final customer who came with fabulous ideas no matter what building stage of the ship was in. Technical installations were top secret.

• project management
• reporting (in-house and external)
• data management and analysis
• project controlling
• technical and project documentation
• sub contractor coordination
• rollout management
• claim management
• site survey

DSL-Rollout: Site surveys of central offices before acceptance for optimisation of DTAG-offers

Our task was to review DTAG-offers for central offices before acceptance. So we sat down and did some number crunching to find for cost reductions.

• evaluations of offers for central offices of DTAG
• carrying out of site surveys
• review of offered positions for necessity including checks of measurement and quantities
• clarification of special conditions on site
• report preparation for each site about various cost reduction possibilities

Data management of network parameters to improve network quality nationwide

Our client was not happy since journal reviews and customer complaints showed an inadequate network quality. The management board reacted promptly by setting up a project for network quality improvement. The idea was to retrieve network parameter, e.g. dropped-, noisy- and blocked-call rates, from the active network and analyse it. This was the basis to install methods and provisions to tackle each issue. At the same time a longtime and detailed reporting for network quality was installed.  As such we pre-checked data records from app. 15.000 base station per network region. These were prepared and put together centrally as quality data. In parallel, we coordinated the definition of target and critical values. All corrective actions were proved if effective.

• project management
• reporting (in-house and external)
• data management
• database development
• quality control
• quality management

This assignment was to establish an comprehensive reporting system from the operational point of view.

This assignment focused on data management and reporting from the operational point of view, especially on system technology swap, reintegration, transport network expansion and the introduction of new technology. One task was to analyse the interfaces for integration between network planning and network structure. We coordinated the data management concept and introduced the nationwide collocation of all relevant parameters.
As a little side job we analysed and optimised the spare part logistics for the field service.

• project management
• reporting (in-house and external)
• data management
• database development
• quality control
• quality management

DSL-Rollout: Clarification of possibilities for network extensions followed by actual execution of rollout

We were supporting the DSL-rollout of a Germany network operator by finding possibilities to connect specified (DTAG) central offices to the existing network.

• checking connectivity of potential central offices to the existing network
• analysis and demonstration of various possibilities for backbone extensions
• preparation of network concepts including internal clearance of possible ways of realisation
• calculation of profitability
• negotiations of frame contracts with various network providers
• price and contract negotiations for bandwidth and dark fibre
• leased line management during rollout

Project management network building UMTS in one network region of a national German Mobile Service Operator with extreme antenna height (at least 100meters)

With the objective to accelerate the UMTS-network building within the region and to improve the UMTS-availability, especial UMTS-base stations were built on exposed locations (app. 50 sites) and installed at an elevated height (up to 250m). On behalf of the regional management, we were responsible for the project management covering the complete spectrum of network building: starting with the provision of the necessary system technology components, carrying out calculation of profitability per site, monitoring and instruction of network planning, site acquisition, implementation, installation … ending with the site acceptance.

• project management network building
• project controlling
• reporting
• budget planning and monitoring
• system technology provision

Project management UMTS-network building and GSM-network aggregation in region North.

Our client gave us the authority to watch over the UMTS-network building process and GSM-network aggregation in one of his network regions. The building was to be carried out by a prime contractor i.e. network planning, acquisition, management of government authorities, infrastructure construction, installation, integration and acceptances. On behalf of the regional network manager we controlled the prime contractor in the region (Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania).

In order to be able to do so we intensified the data management for network building and made sure to secure data quality.

Our client also  bought a number of base station sites. We took inventory and made suggestions how to proceed with each of them. Our proposal was the result of checking the lease, the site survey and possibilites for integration.

• interim management
• project management network building
• project controlling
• reporting
• coaching
• contract management
• site surveys
• feasibility studies
• subcontractor management

Project coordination for planning and construction of test networks for UMTS for Ericsson and Nokia technology in Düsseldorf and Berlin, coordination of all test activities

Each technology manufacturer had to prove the overall functionality of his future network before implementation and rollout. By building a test network he had to perform typical procedures and processes of installation, integration and acceptance. We were responsible for the project coordination.

• project coordination
• subcontractor coordination
• test management
• project reporting

UMTS-network building: negotiation and conclusion of frame contracts with leased line providers

The object was to negotiate frame contracts for the provision of leased lines and dark fibre with all relevant leased line providers in Germany in the course of the UMTS-network building. The first project step was to draft a standard contract for bandwidth and dark fibre as a basis for negotiation. The draft was developed in co-ordination with all departments affected by the agreements such as fixed network planning, system technology, purchase, operation and legal. Furthermore the scope for the subsequent negotiation meetings with network operators was fine tuned with each department. The next step was the actual meeting with the carrier to negotiate and conclude the contract. This was done in co-operation and consultation with the responsible member of staff of each department and in adherence to the defined rooms to negotiate. The internal and external project controlling, contract management and reporting was secured by member of staff of Solutions Factory situated at the client’s headquarter.

• contract development
• contract negotiation
• project controlling
• contract management
• reporting
• coaching of client staff
• benchmarking

Management Consulting focussing on Product Development and Sales

Marketing / Public Relations

• product analysis and evaluation
• evaluation of market analyses regarding product feasibility
• development of product concepts and implementation models for B2B and whole sale
•  analyses, concepts and planning for marketing and sales
• description of show samples
• event production
• preparation and exhibition of trade fairs and exhibitions
• design and implementation of a reporting system to improve communicative interfaces
• design and concept of media
• project management for corporate publications

Advice on the Development of Objectives, Design and Implementation of a Telecommunications strategy

As part of the modernization of telecommunications and telecommunications services, we were commissioned to advise on the development and implementation of a telecommunications strategy. Objectives and measuring criteria are determined with each departement. By weighting goals and input of expert conferences for technology and services of the future, the TC strategy will be developed and subsequently implemented.

• consultation telecommunications
• objective development
• strategic development
• strategy implementation
• coaching
• presenter / co-ordinator

Conception, Writing and Coordination of Specifications for Service Monitoring and 1st Level Support (NMC)

As part of the modernization of telecommunications and telecommunications services, we were commissioned to draw up specifications for monitoring and 1st-Level support service in the Network Management Center. The specifications included 24h / 7d monitoring of telecommunications and technical IT.

• consultation telecommunications
• definition of services
• definition of specifications for monitoring and 1^st level support

Designing, Writing and Coordinating of Specification for all necessary Services for Planning and Operation of IP and IP/MPLS.

As part of the modernization of telecommunications and telecommunications services, we were commissioned to draw up specifications for all necessary services for the planning and operation of IP and IP/MPLS. Services to be covered et al. network planning (incl. patch management, asset management, high level design, low level design), installation and commissioning, field service, repair, operational support.
Critical infrastructure (Data Center) and IP-Edge & Access were given special consideration. Counsel and support during the EU tender procedure regarding selection of bidders, negotiation and award.

• consultation telecommunications
• definition of all services
• budget calculations
• contract negotiations

Designing, Writing and Reconciling Specifications for the Supply of Hardware, Software and Systems, as well as all necessary Services for Planning and Operation of Voice Communication.

As part of the modernisation of telecommunications and telecommunications services, we were commissioned to draw up specifications for the supply of hardware, software and systems, as well as all necessary services for the planning and operation of voice communications. The services to be covered included et al voice network planning, delivery of system technology, installation, commissioning and repair. The EU tender documents have been prepared. Counsel and support during the EU tender procedure regarding selection of bidders, negotiation and award.

• consultation telecommunications
• definition and specification of all services, PBX, voice network planning, installation and commissioning, repair, field service, operational support, voice network operation
• contract negotiations
• budget calculations

Design, Writing and Coordination of Specifications for the Delivery of Hardware, Software and Systems, as well as all Services required for Project Management, Planning and Operation of Transmission Technology (DWDM, SDH, PDH, IP / MPLS, radio relay)

As part of the modernization of telecommunications and telecommunications services, we were commissioned to draw up specifications for a turnkey service provider for transmission technology, supply of hardware, software and systems, as well as all necessary services for planning and operation of voice communication, commissioning.
The services to be covered included et al. turnkey project management, modernisation TDM network, transmission network planning, delivery of system technology, staging, installation, commissioning, maintenance, provision of a spare part logistics, typical testing, system integration.
Counsel and support during the EU tender procedure regarding selection of bidders, negotiation and award.

• consultation telecommunications
• conception and specifications of all services and technologies such as DWDM, SDH, PDH, IP / MPLS, directional radio, turnkey project management / general contractor, network planning, transmission technology, installation and commissioning, staging, maintenance and repair, typicals testing procedure, system integration, warehouse management
• contract negotiations
• budget calculations

Programming test interface for leased line invoice audit based on MS-EXCEL

As part of the audit of leased line invoices, the electronic invoices sent by suppliers were previously checked against order commitments in complicated manual procedures. To simplify the procedure, a suitable test interface was programmed (MS EXCEL basis). Now, the billing data are automatically imported into this test interface and checked against the relevant order commitment data. Deviations are displayed as categorized error reports.

• data analysis
• definition of field comparison rules according to customer specifications
• macro programming
• documentation

Collecting relevant data of all existing framework contracts in a newly created master contract database

All existing framework contract documents were recorded digitally. Afterwards, the contracts were checked and the necessary data entered into the database. A directory structure has been defined for the systematic filing of all framework contract files on the server. Subsequently, the database was made accessible company-wide for an authorized group of people.

• digital recording and systematic filing of framework contracts
• manual entry of the contract key points
• subsequent import of a comprehensive (current) list of contact persons

Data migration of Leased Line Inventory comprising the inventories of various network providers into a live leased line management system

The existing leased line inventory of a network operator had to be migrated into the database of another network operator due to a company merger. Both operators were in operation during the process. Upfront, the leased line data had to be checked for plausibility, consistency, correctness and suffiency.

• inventory control
• inventory adjustment
• cancellation of unused / dispensable leased lines
• reconciliation of inventory
• preparation of data migration
• data migration
• test / check after data migration

Creation of Contract Management Database for Carrier Contracts based on SQL

All existing frame contracts were digitally filed. The next step was to assess the contracts as preparation for the data entry. All contracts were filed systematically into the newly developed directory structure. Subsequently, the data base was activated for the relevant group of people.

• specification of requirements
• data model creation
• programming and testing
• implementation
• data entry of existing contracts and service level agreements
• structured filing of contracts in paper and digital form

Fixed Network, Leased Line Management

Realisation of cost savings potential for existing leased line contracts

• preparation and conducting price negotiations for leased lines
• creation of benchmarks
• contract review and analysis for dark fibre and bandwidth contracts
• preparation and coordination of leased lines migration

The existing bandwidth contracts were to be checked for their cost reduction potential and prioritised accordingly. Prices were re-negotiated and when necessary contract amendments drafted. All price changes were documented in the client’s database.

• inventory control
• contract negotiation
• reporting
• contract management
• documentation

Specification and implementation of a software tool to handle spare parts

As part of the process analysis of the network operator’s existing spare part logistics, it was determined that in addition to extensive adjustments to the process chain, the introduction of logistics software tailored to the specific needs of the network operator was required. The requirements were specified on the basis of the changed process chain. As part of a market analysis, a suitable provider for the implementation of the software solution was selected and the entire process from adaptation to integration of the new software was accompanied. The users were trained with individually created documents. The initial inventory was planned and carried out.

• tool specification
• definitions of requirements and specifications
• market analysis of various logistics software
• carrying out of tender
• acceptance and integration testing

UMTS/GSM-Radio Planning, Data Management

Consolidation and Optimisation of Radio Network Data to implement improved data interfaces between Planning Systems and Operational Network

• process optimisation within the BSS-parameter planning for the integration of base stations into the operational radio network
• co-operation in specification and implementation of a new tool for provisioning of optimised BSS-Parameter and automatic reload of actual parameters into the planning systems
• execution of operational acceptance tests (OAT)
• co-operation in the further development of planning and network documentation systems for radio planning
• development of various tools for automatic traffic control of base stations and regulation of capacity-caused up and down grades within individual base station sectors
• controlling of planning parameter guidelines during network rollout

Concept development for automatic monitoring of service level agreements and claim management

Due to the fact that with all system technology suppliers and leased line providers service agreements had been agreed upon, it was necessary to monitor the performances delivered. The adherence to the agreements was to be checked automatically on the basis of contractually defined key point indicators such as availability or time to repair. For this purpose a concept “vendor reporting / claim management” was developed including process definitions, tool specifications and requirements for reporting.

• concept development
• tool analysis
• process description
• tool specifications
• reporting concept

Guest Lecturer for Project Management in Telecommunications

Guest lecturer for Project Management in Telecommunications, Information Technology. The students got lucky since one of the best was teaching them for several terms.

• teaching
• preaching
• learning … from the young ones
• counseling
• enjoying