The panel discussed how telecoms operators are moving from large, tightly integrated legacy systems towards more modular technology architectures. The main conclusion was that modularity should not mean buying dozens of separate components from different suppliers, because this can create excessive integration cost and operational risk. Instead, operators should group capabilities into manageable clusters that match their commercial needs and technology strategy.
Cerillion was highlighted as an example of this balanced approach. Chief Executive Louis Hall explained that Cerillion provides BSS and OSS software through a standard product model, while allowing customers to integrate external systems through open APIs and industry standards. He argued that standards-based architecture can make components easier to replace or extend without requiring operators to rebuild their entire technology environment.
Virgin Media Ireland described its own use of Cerillion during a mobile transformation. The operator moved from a large pan-European billing platform to a system designed around its Irish business. Cerillion fitted into a headless architecture alongside digital platforms, third-party products and bespoke sales tools. This allowed Virgin Media Ireland to modernise its billing environment while retaining flexibility across customer-facing systems.
The discussion also covered the growing importance of TM Forum standards and the Open Digital Architecture. These standards were presented as a common framework that can reduce integration risk, improve interoperability and support future transformation.
Cerillion plc (LON:CER) is a leading provider of billing, charging and customer management systems with more than 20 years’ experience delivering its solutions across a broad range of industries including the telecommunications, finance, utilities and transportation sectors.
