We’ve just returned from MVNO Nation in Valencia, Spain, and the event left a lasting impact on me. It was full of thought-provoking discussions with innovators, change-makers, and peers from across the industry.
While I gained insights on many topics, one recurring theme stood out to me from the event: speed. It not only underscored so many presentations and discussions at MVNO Nation, but it also resonated at a deeper level due to certain events that foreshadowed the annual event.
Leading up to MVNO Nation, Valencia was hit by severe flash flooding. The torrential rain and flash flooding happened at such speed that thousands were trapped, hundreds lost their lives, and the whole region was left to deal with the terrible aftermath. Two weeks later and those affected remain affected – all due to a lack of speed – resulting in mass protests.
It’s a stark contrast – when things happen quickly, they have the power to be hugely impactful; when the responses lag, they highlight the shortcomings of delay.
It’s this juxtaposition of speed and inertia that I feel holds valuable lessons for MVNOs, especially in an industry where agility defines success. And one that I think is a very interesting and relevant summary of the key themes of MVNO Nation.
One of my favourite sessions from MVNO Nation was led by Karianne from Norway’s Nice Mobil, speaking about the necessity for data-driven product design. Her core message was that speed matters: learning fast, failing fast, and adapting faster makes MVNOs nimbler and uniquely positioned to respond to market shifts. This agility is what sets MVNOs apart from traditional operators and the main reason they can steal share – because they think fast, act fast and adjust quickly too.
I was praying to the demo gods when Mark at Amdocs told me he was going to set up MVNO Nation as an MVNO in a live demo of Amdocs Connect X. The demo gods were kind (for once!) and what he demonstrated was the incredible potential of AI in speeding up MVNO setup and delivery. This innovation enables brands to rapidly launch MVNOs, creating a compelling case for the role of AI in operational speed. Amdocs are inviting any brand to rapidly create an MVNO, which is pretty game changing.
Whilst his demo was fantastic, of course those of us in telecoms know that the wholesale contracts, product design, funding, branding etc. (in other words, anything that involves a human or two!) can slow the process. But it’s a great reminder of the value and purpose of technology – that is, to simplify and speed up work and allow us to focus on creative, strategic activity that makes a real impact.
I also enjoyed several sessions centred on data-driven strategies and insights and the importance of these dimensions in driving speed and directionality within a business. Most significantly, the role CDPs can play in supporting agile business. Whether formulating strategies or executing ideas, data is what is allowing leading businesses today to move quickly and confidently in alignment with their customer needs. This rapid response and agility enabled by data is key to staying relevant in this industry that is defined by constant change.
It’s impossible to attend an MVNO event without hearing the words 5G, ESIM, and now, RCS. But these technologies aren’t simply creating buzz and permeating our industry vocabulary – they are the key drivers of speed and convenience in the context of access and product convenience.
But in this context of speed, the question that must be asked is this – why? Why do subscribers need more speed? Why do subscribers want greater convenience? It is important MVNOs balance the drive for speed with a clear understanding of subscriber needs, ensuring that innovation remains purposeful.
There was lots of networking to be done at MVNO Nation and despite the ‘speed networking’ sessions on offer, the networking was anything but that. Instead of speed it really was quality, and I managed to have lots of deep, considered discussions with friends, colleagues and peers. These meaningful dialogues acted as a healthy reminder that, while speed has its place, quality sometimes matters more. And while we can embrace speed, we should never lose sight of authenticity and connection.
Speed is a powerful tool, but it should be wielded with intention. Whether it’s our response to crises, business strategy, or personal connections, we should always consider quality outcomes. This year’s MVNO Nation provided a powerful reminder: speed can drive us forward, but when grounded in purpose, it can be truly transformative.
Thank you to the MVNO Nation organisers and everyone who attended and spent some time with the SourseAI team. Here’s to next year!