The total number of OXC ports that would be required here would be more than 270 but substantially less than 360. We have used an estimate of 288. In considering a network design, of course, operators are interested in more than just capital costs. The other reason for the change is to speed up circuit provisioning thus improving cash flow and developing an improved competitive posture. Both of these advantages could weigh heavily in favor of a mesh selection.
Operational savings come from the previously mentioned control capabilities.
As the network increases in size, the mesh option becomes even more economical. A major revenue increase comes from improving speed of service delivery. However, that potential is very hard to quantify, and it will only exist as long as the other competitors haven t installed similar capabilities. The other strategic advantage lies in being able to more quickly implement service. Traditional ring designs can entail provisioning intervals of six months or longer.