Vodafone set out to improve network performance and efficiency by creating a clear path toward higher levels of automation. A joint program run in collaboration with Capgemini delivered an Autonomous Network Level discovery based on TMForum methodology, one of the most significant findings was the recognition of Autonomous Network level 3.4 in Fault & Incident Management cross domain scenario, an area where Vodafone had made substantial investments to scale automation.

Building on a clear understanding of the “asis” state, the program delivered a scalable and actionable roadmap, along with a prioritization of high impact quick wins designed to increase automation within a short timeframe and investment.

Unlocking the future of telecoms with autonomous networks

Vodafone is one of Europe’s largest telecom providers and serves millions of customers who expect fast, reliable, and seamless connectivity. As digital services grow and networks become more complex, operators face pressure to improve efficiency and keep raising the quality of the experience they deliver.

Automation is becoming the best way to meet these expectations. An Autonomous Network can monitor its own performance, make decisions, and act without delay, which supports Vodafone’s vision of a future with Zero-Touch operations, shorter waiting times, and fewer service issues.

To turn this vision into reality, Vodafone wanted a clear picture of its current strengths and a structured plan for the years ahead. This meant understanding where automation could have the greatest impact, how it could support business goals, and what steps were needed to reach higher levels of autonomy.

Vodafone partnered with Capgemini to create this foundation. Together, they used recognized industry methods, including the TM Forum approach, to assess automation maturity and explore future opportunities. Through joint workshops and a shared design process, the partners built a roadmap that helps Vodafone take important steps toward a more intelligent and resilient network.

Clarifying a future of innovation

Vodafone and Capgemini began their work with a series of discovery workshops that brought together teams from across the organization. These sessions created a shared view of how Vodafone’s networks operate today and where automation could deliver the strongest value.

With this foundation in place, the teams combined their expertise to define an intent-based vision that set a direction for the years ahead. Vodafone and Capgemini agreed on guiding principles that would support consistent decision-making and help turn ambition into practical steps. Through further analysis, the partners identified key enablers that would allow Vodafone to move at pace. These included the data, processes, and system improvements needed to support higher levels of automation.

The result was a roadmap that combined quick wins with long-term transformation goals. It outlined a target architecture, key enablers, and a reusable blueprint that could scale across markets. This project also created clarity on where to focus governance and investment that would drive early progress while preparing for future growth. This approach gave Vodafone a structured way forward, shaped through collaboration and shared understanding.

Preparing the way for autonomous networks

In Germany, Vodafone’s largest market, the company reached a cross-domain maturity score of 3.4 in Fault and Incident Management. This result demonstrates the movement toward higher levels of autonomy and reflects the value of having a structured plan, clear priorities, and shared ways of working. It is important to note that the level of automation found is cross-domain, that is far more complex than having a single domain higher level of automation.

The new roadmap has helped Vodafone take immediate steps to improve how its network is monitored and managed. Better observability and more consistent operations create a foundation for future automation, supporting higher service quality for customers.

The blueprint can now be scaled across other markets, allowing Vodafone to progress at speed while maintaining a unified approach. Shared governance, stronger use of data, and the planned introduction of AI-driven capabilities will further strengthen this momentum. This gave Vodafone clarity on where to focus investment to improve resilience and unlock performance gains. These insights help link technology choices to customer and business outcomes in a clear and practical way. As Simon Norton explains, understanding the current state and using proven frameworks gave Vodafone a credible path toward higher levels of autonomy:

“Network transformation starts with clarity: understanding the current state and leveraging expert insight and industry-proven frameworks to shape the journey ahead. Vodafone has invested substantial effort and resources in automating Fault & Incident Management and I am truly pleased with the achievement of autonomy level 3.4 across complex cross‑domain scenarios. Thanks to Capgemini’s expertise and the TM Forum methodology, Vodafone gained a clear view of its network maturity and defined a credible roadmap toward higher levels of autonomy.”

Simon Norton, Director of Digital Networks, AI & OSS (European Markets) – Vodafone

Vodafone is now well positioned to continue its journey toward Level 4 Autonomous Networks. The work completed so far sets the foundation for closed-loop automation, broader market adoption, and more intelligent operations. With a clear direction and a shared plan, Vodafone can move forward with confidence as it shapes the next generation of its network.