Streamlining Mobile Site Acquisition, Design, and Build with Software

18.03.2025 16:37

The Growing Demand for Mobile Infrastructure

As the mobile industry continues to expand, operators must rapidly scale their Radio Access Networks (RAN) to meet increasing demands for coverage, capacity, and performance. According to GSMA’s The Mobile Economy 2023 report, there will be 6.3 billion unique mobile subscribers by 2030, with 5.5 billion mobile internet users—all requiring high-speed, low-latency connectivity.

With 5G deployments driving network expansion, mobile network operators (MNOs) face enormous challenges in acquiring, designing, and constructing new mobile sites at scale. The complexity of regulatory approvals, infrastructure planning, and deployment logistics makes efficient site management critical to success.

The Challenges of Mobile Site Deployment

Once a site is selected, MNOs must navigate a complex acquisition, design, and build process that includes:

Site Acquisition: Negotiating with property owners, securing permits, and managing regulatory approvals
Site Design: Finalizing technical blueprints, ensuring compliance, and integrating infrastructure with the network
Construction & Activation: Deploying equipment, optimizing connectivity, and bringing the site online

Managing these steps manually can delay rollouts, increase costs, and introduce compliance risks. To overcome these challenges, MNOs are turning to software-driven solutions that streamline and automate site deployment.

How Software Accelerates Mobile Site Rollouts

1. Centralized Document Management

Regulatory paperwork, contracts, and technical specifications must be securely stored and easily accessible. Software solutions like FNT Command ensure all site-related documents are:

Digitally stored and linked to site records
Searchable with metadata for easy retrieval
Securely managed with role-based access control

2. Workflow Automation for Faster Approvals

The site rollout process involves multiple teams, each requiring visibility into different phases. Workflow automation enables:

Seamless task assignments and milestone tracking
Automated notifications and approvals
Reduced manual errors and process delays

With FNT ProcessCenter, MNOs can model and execute workflows tailored to their specific acquisition and design requirements.

3. GIS-Based Site and Backhaul Planning

MNOs must evaluate site locations based on network coverage needs, infrastructure availability, and connectivity options. GIS-based tools, such as FNT GeoMaps, provide:

Visualized site locations with network overlays
Fiber and microwave backhaul routing for optimized connectivity
Distance measurement and feasibility analysis

4. Digital Blueprints for Efficient Site Design

Once a site is approved, its design must be finalized with precise configurations. Software-driven site design enables:

Predefined templates for different site types (urban, rural, highway)
Automated equipment placement and cabling schematics
Integration with engineering tools for seamless radio network planning

With FNT Command, MNOs can create digital site blueprints that accelerate design and ensure accuracy.

5. Real-Time Construction and Deployment Tracking

During site construction, ensuring progress tracking and issue resolution is critical. Mobile-accessible software allows teams to:

Upload real-time site photos and updates
Track construction milestones and dependencies
Access site documentation on mobile devices

With FNT Command Mobile, field teams can digitally manage site builds, reducing delays and improving efficiency.

Accelerating 5G Rollouts with Software

As MNOs race to expand 5G coverage, software solutions are essential for overcoming the complexity of site acquisition, design, and construction. By leveraging automation, digital twins, and GIS-powered planning, operators can: