Nokia and WFI Scandinavia AB have signed a global agreement to co-operate in delivering network operations services to operators. This non-exclusive co-operation agreement will reinforce Nokia's capability to support network operations and help operators achieve peak performance from their 2G/3G networks.
WFI Scandinavia AB, a subsidiary of Wireless Facilities, Inc. (WFI), will leverage its extensive experience operating GSM networks to support the evolution to next generation systems. As the leading independent provider of network planning, implementation and management services, WFI has also established significant capabilities for turnkey deployment of GSM and 3G networks throughout Europe, including large-scale UMTS network design experience.
With its unique Connecting@Care offering for existing GSM, GPRS and future 3G network operators, Nokia provides a wide range of support services ranging from technical platform support to full outsourcing of network operations. This comprehensive portfolio, which includes the Nokia Care Packages, is a crucial enabler of 3G and advanced 2G networks and the content-rich services that they support.
This agreement backs up Nokia's commitment to provide one of the first 3GPP standards compliant 3G networks with open interfaces in 2001, and to offering the fastest time to market for 3G. For new 3G operators, the co-operation will support improved network performance and a more secure investment.
"Nokia's network operations support, which combines our expertise with the skills of partners such as WFI, gives operators crucial resources for orchestrating their transition to 3G," said Matti Makkonen, Senior Vice President, Professional Services, Nokia Networks. "By freeing operators to concentrate on their most strategic activities, it also supports their 3G business case."
“We are quite pleased to be working with Nokia to assist operators in better preparing for the challenges of 3G migration," said Lars Högman, Managing Director for WFI Scandinavia. “With our proven track record in next generation wireless technologies, we can deliver our customers network solutions to ease the transition to 3G as well as secure long-term cost and operational efficiencies essential in a highly competitive marketplace.”
Nokia's 3G infrastructure is based on open standards, platforms and interfaces, critical for a smooth evolution to commercial 3G services in a multi-vendor network. It includes integrated end-to-end solutions covering charging, security, network management & service control applications.
A global leader in telecommunications outsourcing, Wireless Facilities, Inc. (Nasdaq:WFII) designs, deploys and manages wireless networks for some of the largest cellular, PCS and broadband wireless carriers and equipment suppliers worldwide. Specialising in network architecture and dimensioning of mobile and high speed wireless data systems, including third generation (3G) networks, WFI provides a complete range of network services – from business and market planning to RF engineering, fixed network engineering, IP and data engineering, site acquisition and development, installation, optimisation and maintenance. Headquartered in San Diego, WFI has grown to more than 2,000 employees and has performed work in over 100 countries since the company was founded in late 1994. The company has offices in Dallas, Chicago, Seattle, Reston VA, Montvale NJ, London, Gothenburg, Frankfurt, Madrid, Mexico City, São Paulo and New Delhi. News and information are available at www.wfinet.com.
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
Further information:
Communications Department
Nokia Networks
Tel. + 358 7180 38195
Email: nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com
Investor Relations, Wireless Facilities, Inc.,
Tel +1 858 228 2450
Email: info@wfinet.com
www.wfinet.com