Optus implements a Unified Data Platform to assist in cloud migration

Partnered with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra and Databricks.

Optus has partnered with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra and Data to implement a unified data platform (UDP) to help the telco in its data, applications and systems migration to the cloud.

Through this implementation Optus’ aim was to consolidate multiple legacy data platforms (under one data platform solution.

The key feature of this solution is an enterprise data lakehouse, delivering an open, unified foundation for all data and governance, powered by the Databricks data intelligence engine.

The migration has enhanced data access, insights and operational efficiency for Optus. For instance, it has reduced operational processing time for core loads by 50 per cent and data engineering pipeline development time by up to 20 per cent.

Mark Potter, CIO at Optus said they decided on a UDP as it underpins key business outcomes including executive level dashboards, decisioning models and personalisation.

“Optus is thrilled to enable our people to use our data to make more insightful decisions with our completed migration to a unified data platform,” he said.

“By collaborating with Microsoft, Tech Mahindra and Databricks, not only will our employees benefit from a better user experience and reduced latency, but our teams now can introduce and work across some of the most advanced, cutting-edge technology available.”

Potter said Optus’ customers will also see the benefits from this implementation.

“This step towards the cloud will allow us to create a more personalised journey at every touchpoint they have with Optus and this is another great example of Optus empowering Australia’s positive connections.”

Optus replaced legacy, on-premise critical operational data warehouses with best-in-market cloud solutions located in Australia. This resulted in data consolidation, reduced latency, better security and governance, and the scalability needed for future projects.

As they further scale up the use of UDP within Optus, Potter said the telco will continue to evolve its data and AI-driven, customer-centric model by enabling better decisions faster, delivering superior customer experience, and maintaining operational excellence.

“Optus will continue to optimise our data and AI landscape while exploring emerging capabilities of the platform to support our business objectives and create positive experience for our customers in the region,” he said.

“Consolidating all our data under one platform with modern data and AI capabilities will enable Optus to continuously compete in this challenging industry.”

Vendors react to the implementation of the UDP

Potter noted being core partners with Optus for many years, Microsoft together with Azure Databricks and Tech Mahindra found synergies in joining together their deep understanding of Optus and the Singtel Group.

“This enabled the partners to together submit a compelling solution to Optus’ needs driving true business value,” he said.

Sarah Carney, national chief technology officer at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand said, “It’s inspiring to see Optus leading the charge in APAC with a unified data platform powered by Microsoft Azure.

“This partnership showcases how organisations can unlock the full potential of their data and embrace cutting-edge technologies like generative AI to deliver better experiences for customers and employees,” she said.

Harshvendra Soin, President – Asia Pacific and Japan Business at Tech Mahindra said the UDP also allows Optus to accelerate the implementation of next-generation technologies that leverage generative AI and machine learning.

“The combination of these technologies and the consolidation of customer data across all touchpoints allows Optus to provide a more personalised experience through relevant offers, faster issue resolution and tailored service recommendations,” he said.

Adam Beavis, Vice President and Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand at Databricks called this a “significant milestone in Optus” data modernisation effort.

“We’re pleased to be supporting its data and AI transformation journey. We look forward to partnering with the team on many more exciting data and AI use cases, including uplifting customer engagement with GenAI tools.

The company has also enabled its employees to be among the first in the APAC region to use a UDP to work more efficiently and collaboratively.