• Home>
  • Resources>
  • No AI without humans: Bridging the gap in telecoms innovation

No AI without humans: Bridging the gap in telecoms innovation

Blog

In today’s hyper-connected world, telecoms infrastructure is not just a utility—it is the foundation of modern life. Every message sent, every transaction processed, and every piece of content streamed relies on an intricate web of fibre optics, 5G towers, and data centers. But these networks are more than just cables and signals; they are the digital twin of our physical social networks, mirroring how we interact, collaborate, and innovate. 

 

The industry’s inflection point: Investment vs. execution challenges

The UK telecoms industry stands at a crucial turning point. With £40 billion committed to rolling out full-fibre broadband by 2030 and 5G coverage expected to reach 90% of the country by 2028, digital infrastructure investment has never been higher. The demand for faster, more reliable connectivity is surging, yet deployment bottlenecks, rising costs, and labour shortages threaten to slow progress at a time when speed has never been more critical.

Technology is evolving, but so must execution. While AI-driven network intelligence, predictive analytics, and automated fault detection are helping to optimise network performance, the way these networks are physically built and maintained is lagging behind. The industry is pouring resources into transforming the network itself—but what about the workforce responsible for deploying and maintaining it?


The workforce is being left behind in the AI revolution

While AI-powered systems are improving network reliability, field teams like the engineers, contractors, and maintenance crews at the frontline of telecoms expansion, are still operating with outdated workflows, paper-based processes, and inefficient communication methods.

This is the industry’s blind spot. Innovation is overwhelmingly focused on network automation and hardware enhancements, yet the people building, inspecting, and repairing infrastructure continue to work within outdated and fragmented systems. Without the right digital tools, inefficiencies persist, safety risks increase, and deployment slows, costing businesses millions in delays and lost revenue opportunities.


Revolutionising field operations with FYLD

Imagine a world where field teams no longer waste time on paperwork, risks are identified before they cause delays, and supervisors have real-time visibility into projects. By putting field teams at the heart of digital transformation, FYLD enables real-time risk identification, AI-powered compliance support, and digital worksite visibility, bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and the workforce executing critical projects.

  • Faster, safer, more efficient operations: Field teams and engineers can instantly capture and share insights, eliminating bottlenecks and reducing delays.

  • Proactive risk management:  AI identifies potential issues before they escalate, improving safety and compliance.

  • Remote monitoring and smart decision-making: Supervisors gain real-time visibility into operations, reducing unnecessary site visits and enhancing oversight.

 

The measurable impact: Faster time to revenue, stronger margins

With UK telcos under pressure to accelerate rollout and minimise downtime, solutions like FYLD directly impact bottom-line results:

  •  Productivity gains of up to 12% by eliminating inefficiencies in workflows.

  • Reduction in unplanned stoppages by up to 20%, minimising costly delays.

  • Faster time to revenue by accelerating project completion and preventing rework.

  •  Improved safety and Streetworks compliance, reducing incidents and fines.


The future of telecoms: Where human expertise meets digital innovation

As the world moves toward a full-fibre and 5G future, success will depend on bridging the gap between technological advancements and the workforce responsible for execution. Telecoms is not just about cables and signals, it is about enabling businesses to grow, communities to connect, and industries to thrive.

AI may optimise networks, but it’s humans who build, maintain, and power our connected world. The industry needs AI solutions that enhance human capability, not just network performance. By equipping field teams with the right digital tools, we can accelerate progress, cut costs, and secure a future where telecoms innovation truly delivers, on time and on budget.

Don’t let outdated processes slow your telecoms expansion. See how FYLD can transform your field operations today.


About the authors:

Marcio Rodrigues

Márcio Rodrigues

Márcio Rodrigues is the Vice President - EMEA at FYLD, where he leads strategic growth and innovation across the region. With extensive expertise in digital transformation, SaaS, and AI-driven solutions, Marcio is passionate about helping businesses reimagine the future through cutting-edge technology and exceptional customer experiences.

 

Hazel MacMahon

Hazel MacMahon

Hazel MacMahon is a Value Consultant at FYLD, where she partners with customers to quantify the impact of FYLD’s AI-powered solutions on their business. With a background in business transformation and digital change, Hazel focuses on driving value within critical infrastructure industries such as energy and transportation.

 

Welcome to the future of fieldwork execution

Book a free demo
Talk to sales