A leading Dutch provider of telephony and internet services, with an extensive fiber optic network, encountered a major issue that affected their service. The network used the Fiber Termination Unit (FTU), a device that manages and connects fiber optic cables to customer equipment. The FTU converts light signals into electrical signals, allowing standard Ethernet cables to connect to modems and routers via a media converter.

The problem arose because different fibre infrastructure providers were using different FTU models. As a result, the provider’s standard media converter was not always compatible with these FTUs. This meant that some customers were unable to use fibre services without having the entire FTU replaced, which was time-consuming and costly. Engineers spent several hours performing these replacements, resulting in increased costs and longer waiting times for customers. This also limited the provider’s ability to quickly connect new customers, which negatively impacted their operational efficiency.

The provider was faced with several challenges that impacted their business operations:

• Compatibility Issues: Different FTU versions led to incompatibility with the media converter, making it difficult for customers to connect easily.

• High costs and long waiting times: Replacing the FTU was a time-consuming and costly process, resulting in higher operational costs and longer wait times for customers.

• Limited capacity: The number of customers that could be connected per day was limited by the time engineers needed for FTU replacement.

• Efficiency challenges: The provider struggled to maintain and improve the efficiency of their installation processes.

BNS started with an extensive analysis of the different FTU models that were used on various networks. Based on this analysis, the team designed a universal adapter that was compatible with all FTUs. This made it possible to use the provider's media converter without having to replace the entire FTU.

In addition, BNS chose to produce the adapter using recycled plastic, which was not only environmentally friendly but also cost-efficient. The adapter came with a fiber optic connection cable and a simple installation process. This allowed customers to install the adapter themselves, without the need for a technician to come to the site. This significantly reduced the waiting time for customers and reduced the costs for the provider.

The implementation of the universal adapter by BNS had a significant positive impact on the provider's service provision:

• Cost reduction: Avoiding complete FTU replacement resulted in a significant reduction in installation costs. Installers were able to connect more customers in less time, reducing operational costs.

• Improved customer satisfaction: Customers could be connected faster, with the option to perform the installation themselves, reducing wait times and improving ease of use.

• Environmental friendliness: The use of recycled plastic reduced CO2 emissions, which was in line with the sustainability goals of both BNS and the supplier.

• Efficiency improvement: The universal adapter made it possible to connect customers faster and more efficiently. Technicians were less held up by time-consuming replacements, which increased the provider's operational efficiency.