Suppliers created proprietary product offerings to gain access to these existing networks over the cable access network. Back then, there was no universally accepted standard for two-way communication over the cable plant. As a result, cable operators had to continually add more equipment to offer these services. All of this new equipment, each with its own complex technology, requires more capital expense, more operations expense, more training, more space, more air conditioning, etc. As will be introduced now, for competitive reasons, operators should consider a strategy to reduce the amount of equipment needed to offer voice, data and video services.
Consumers are fickle.
They want new services, and they care neither who provides them nor what access technology is used. In light of current and future competition, cable operators need to offer the most compelling services while maintaining a competitive cost structure. Cable cannot continue to deploy parallel networks and proprietary products for each new service. Parallel networks increase both capital and operations costs. Proprietary products limit both operators flexibility and the control they maintain over their networks and services.