Vodafone's Global Local Area Network (GLAN) Project

CHALLENGE: A Highly Complex Network

In late 2017, Vodafone was tasked with replacing an outdated network for a strategic customer, deploying a fully managed Global Local Area Network (GLAN) across 42 sites worldwide. The project, set to be completed by November 2019, involved significant risk due to potential network failures impacting production and incurring substantial financial losses.

Schedule Pressure from the Start

Initial delays in contract sign-off led to multiple design changes, putting pressure on the project schedule. Despite being one of the world’s largest telecom companies, Vodafone faced challenges in aligning with the revised design requirements.

SOLUTION: PMI Standards for Successful Collaboration

To manage the complexity, the project team adopted PMI standards and conducted workshops to categorize sites and develop a standardized delivery approach. Key actions included:

- Collaborating with suppliers for resource planning

- Allocating budget for top priority site walkthroughs

- Implementing a comprehensive communication plan and formal change control process

- Creating tailored project documentation and risk management plans

- Regular project analysis and governance, with ongoing lessons-learned sessions

RESULTS: On-Time Delivery with Cost Savings

The GLAN project achieved a 90% success rate on the first batch of site migrations and 100% on subsequent attempts. Key outcomes included:

- 10/10 Net Promoter Score from the customer

- On-time project delivery, ahead of schedule

- Cost savings in the resource budget

- Valuable lessons learned for future projects

Quote:

“The project managers’ skillful execution, aligned with PMI standards, ensured the project's success.” – Ahmed ElGedwany, Senior Customer Portfolio Lead

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