In the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry, where every tower, antenna, and
mounting structure is critical to the seamless operation of networks, one factor is
increasingly becoming the linchpin of success—data. However, not just any data, but
accurate structural engineering data that captures every detail of construction and
modification projects. The stakes are high for tower companies (Tower Cos) and Mobile
Network Operators (MNOs). Capturing this data during construction and modification
processes is essential for minimizing costs, establishing network consistency, complying
with lease space requirements, and mitigating compliance and safety risks. As the industry
grows more complex and interconnected, implementing robust Post-Modification
Inspections (PMIs) and Post-Installation Inspections (PIIs) is paramount for ensuring the
industry’s highest quality, code compliance, and safety standards. PMIs and PIIs are also
fundamental for powering truly functional digital twins.
This blog post will examine why capturing and maintaining high-quality structural
engineering data through PMI and PII processes is vital for both Tower Cos and MNOs. This
best practice is essential to optimizing their long-term cost structures, increasing revenue,
and advancing the digitalization of their infrastructure. Utilizing persistent structural
engineering data for continuous infrastructure modifications ensures projects are
completed with precision, efficiency, and minimal cost. In addition, streamlined
engineering and implementation lead to shorter project cycle times and reduced network
downtime. Adopting PMI and PII processes is also critical for risk mitigation and helps pave
the way for a more secure future in the telecommunications industry. We’ll explore the
significance of these inspections, share insights from industry studies, and highlight real-
world examples demonstrating how quality engineering data can be transformed into
actionable information.
The Power of Quality Engineering Data: An Anonymous MNO Case Study
Consider a real-world structural engineering analysis conducted on over 35,000 sites to
evaluate the impact of an antenna change. The initial assessment of the antenna changes
concluded that a significant structural failure rate would be expected across these sites.
The resulting modification recommendations for the MNO would lead to substantial costs
and network downtime for them to implement. However, the engineering data captured
through a PMI inspection process revealed that relocating the antenna on the mounts
would cut the failure rate by 62% – resulting in significant cost savings. This discovery
underscores the transformative power of having quality data. When data is collected,
managed, and analyzed effectively, it becomes invaluable information that guides smarter
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
decisions, reduces costs, and mitigates risks. This case study is a powerful testament to
the impact of quality structural data in our industry.
Post-Installation and Post-Modification Inspections: A Cornerstone of Quality
The importance of Post-Installation Inspections (PIIs) and Post-Modification Inspections
(PMIs) cannot be understated. These inspections are critical in ensuring that
telecommunications infrastructure is installed and modified according to design
specifications. They play a pivotal role in validating what has been installed, how it has
been installed, and whether it meets the required design, safety, and performance
standards.
The telecommunications industry adheres to the International Building Code (IBC) and
uses the ANSI/TIA-222-H standard, establishing that PIIs should be conducted during and
after constructing antenna-supporting structures. Similarly, PMIs are crucial for verifying
that any modifications to existing structures have been executed correctly. Unfortunately,
while these practices are commonly applied to traditional tower structures, they are less
frequently applied to antenna mounting structures despite being equally critical.
Per the engineering design, the value in performing a PII or PMI lies in confirming the
physical installation of the equipment and ensuring structural integrity is maintained
across the entire setup. Most industry failures are not due to design flaws but installation
faults, where structures, modifications, or equipment are not correctly installed. PIIs and
PMIs close this gap by ensuring every component is installed correctly, reducing the
likelihood of costly rework and enhancing overall efficiency. Importantly, these inspections
should be viewed as integral parts of the overall project—not as separate cost areas—
allowing for the improvement of quality and efficiency while reducing costs.
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
Consistency Across Networks: A Critical Imperative
Consistency is a fundamental requirement for any successful telecommunications
network. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and tower companies operate across diverse
geographic locations, each with its own unique set of challenges. Without a consistent
approach to data capture and inspection, the risk of discrepancies increases, leading to
inefficiencies, higher costs, delays with future projects, and potential safety risks.
The role of the Engineer of Record (EOR) in ensuring consistency must be considered.
When the EOR is involved in the PII and PMI processes, they link the design and installation
phases. By incorporating contractor feedback and addressing any assumptions made
during the design phase, the EOR can improve the installation feasibility of
telecommunications infrastructure and ensure that future installations are carried out
more efficiently.
Moreover, the involvement of the EOR in inspections enhances data management across
multiple sites. By standardizing the data collection process, MNOs and tower companies
can maintain consistency in their infrastructure, ensuring that every site meets the same
high standards. This not only streamlines operations but also simplifies the process of
future modifications by eliminating the need for future site mappings, allowing the
collected data to serve as a reliable reference point.
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
Risk Mitigation: Protecting Investments and Ensuring Safety
One of the most significant benefits of a robust PII and PMI process is risk mitigation. The
telecommunications industry is fraught with risks, from structural failures to compliance
issues and safety hazards. Each of these risks can cause significant financial and
reputational damage.
A well-executed PII or PMI helps mitigate these risks by comprehensively assessing the
installation or modification relative to the exact EOR design requirements, which holds
both the contractor and the EOR accountable. By identifying and addressing issues early,
MNOs and tower companies can prevent minor problems from escalating into significant
failures. For example, missing bolts, misaligned safety climb cables, and incorrect mount
installations are all issues that can be detected and rectified through an effective PMI
process, thereby avoiding costly and potentially dangerous consequences.
Moreover, compliance with industry standards and regulations is critical to risk
management. ANSI/TIA-222 Rev. H and the International Building Code (IBC) set stringent
requirements for verifying structural modifications. Ensuring these standards are met
through proper inspections protects companies from potential legal liabilities and ensures
their infrastructure is safe and reliable.
The Role of PII and PMI in Enhancing Data Quality / Functional Digital Twins
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
The telecommunications industry is rapidly evolving, and adopting cutting-edge tools and
technologies in the PII and PMI processes can significantly improve the quality of data
captured. Advanced software integrating PMI and PII data with design models is essential
for ensuring that collected data is comprehensive, accurate, and efficient. The EOR plays a
crucial role in ensuring that the design intent is fully realized, as closing the design loop
eliminates subjectivity in the data. This process also benefits contractors, as the EOR’s
accountability enhances their support. When EORs and contractors collaborate, they
provide valuable feedback to manufacturers, structure owners, and MNOs.
Integrating PII and PMI data with digital twins is one of our industry’s most impactful
technological advancements. A functional digital twin is a virtual model of a physical asset,
such as a telecommunications tower, built with relevant engineering data that can be relied
on and used as actionable information. The true value of a digital twin lies in its accuracy
and currency. By maintaining up-to-date and precise digital twins, MNOs and tower
companies can monitor the condition of their assets over time to:
• Anticipate potential issues
• Optimize implementation and maintenance schedules
• Implement predictive maintenance programs
• Reduce costs and installation/modification timelines
• Extend the lifetime value (LTV) of their infrastructure and assets
• Leverage quick access to information that unlocks new revenue opportunities
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
The Financial Impact: Saving Money Through Quality Engineering Data
The financial implications of capturing and leveraging quality engineering data are
substantial. Properly conducted PIIs and PMIs reduce the likelihood of costly rework,
minimize project delays, and ensure that modifications are completed correctly the first
time. This saves money and accelerates the time-to-market for new services and
technologies.
Additionally, by maintaining accurate records of inspections and modifications, MNOs and
tower companies can better manage their assets and make informed decisions about
future investments. Knowing the exact condition of a tower or mount allows companies to
plan maintenance and upgrades more effectively, avoiding unnecessary expenses and
maximizing the return on investment.
The MNO case study we covered demonstrates how quality engineering data from prior PMI
inspections can be utilized to drive quality engineering solutions and lead to significant
cost savings. By analyzing the data collected during inspections, companies can make
informed decisions that optimize performance and reduce the risk of expensive failures.
Conclusion: The Future of Telecommunications Infrastructure
As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, the importance of capturing and
leveraging quality structural data will only grow. Capturing comprehensive structural data
through PIIs and PMIs is the most efficient and cost-effective way to build functional digital
twins that Tower/Site owners and MNOs can leverage across their businesses. These
processes are not merely regulatory requirements but strategic imperatives for any
company that wants to stay ahead in a competitive market. Our commitment to these
processes is aligned with industry standards, as highlighted in the recent Planning Advisory
Notice1 published by the Telecommunications Industry Foundation, which emphasizes the
necessity of detailed inspections to uphold network safety and reliability.
By ensuring that every installation and modification is thoroughly inspected and accurately
documented, MNOs and tower companies can minimize costs, ensure consistency across
their networks, and mitigate structural failures and non-compliance risks. Moreover,
integrating advanced technologies in the inspection process promises to enhance the
quality of data captured, enabling companies to transform raw data into actionable
insights that drive smarter decisions and superior outcomes.
How Accurate Structural Engineering Data Powers Cost-Efficient Digital
Twins in Telecom Infrastructure
Ready to enhance the integrity and efficiency of your telecom infrastructure? Contact us
today for a personalized consultation on how our PMI and PII services can transform your
operations.
References:
1 Telecommunications Industry Foundation (TIF), Planning Advisory Notice on Post-
Installation Inspection and Post-Modification Inspection
No responses yet