Commercial and technical feasibility study related to an open-access 5G FWA network

The problem

• A wholesale open-access fibre operator in a Gulf country was exploring the opportunity to deploy an open-access 5G FWA network
• It engaged Analysys Mason to conduct a full technical and commercial feasibility study for this opportunity

The solution

• We assessed the dynamics of the market, prepared an overview of the macroeconomic situation and the fixed broadband market, analysed the competitive dynamics in the market, and carried out SWOT and Mendelow analysis from the client’s perspective
• We also carried out international benchmarking of 5G FWA deployment from both retail and wholesale perspectives, to gather insight that could be implemented by our client
• We then defined the technical aspects of a potential 5G FWA product and developed a commercial proposition for the same 
• We conducted geographical analysis of the country to identify relevant areas for roll-out of wholesale 5G FWA and developed a detailed business plan for discussion with the client’s stakeholders
• The final step was to develop a high-level implementation roadmap and regulatory lobbying strategy, including arguments to convince the regulator to grant a licence and award spectrum to our client at a reasonable price

Figure: Wholesale operator’s 5G FWA product

The result

• Our work gave our client a detailed understanding of the key factors that determine the feasibility of a wholesale 5G FWA network, and provided a foundation for the launch of this project from technical, commercial and regulatory perspectives