SOCRATES: Self-Optimisation and Self-ConfiguRATion in WirelESs Networks

A vision is presented regarding the use of self-organisation methods (self-optimisation, self-configuration and self-healing) as a promising opportunity to automate wireless access network planning and optimisation. Key objectives are a substantial reduction of the operational expenditure and an enhancement of network coverage, resource utilisation and service quality. The fundamental drivers for the deployment of self-organisation methods are discussed, considering both the technology and the market perspective. The distinction and interactions between the different components of self-organisation are outlined and the expected gains are discussed.