SDN is a broad term that should not be associated only with SDN controllers. Value can be enabled by variety of automation tools from simple scripts to multi-layer management systems.
The proposed deployment plan:
- Considers likely order of major vendors’ solutions readiness for multi-vendor integration
- Outlines key building blocks and relevant interfaces
Some systems, services and use cases can be automated and exposed to upper levels faster (not on the planned phase) without multi-layer stack of controllers / orchestrators (vertically per domain). The drawback will be the need to pay twice: first to automate the domain, second to replace or significantly change some parts for further integration.
On the first phase of the proposed deployment plan value is mainly from current network optimization: reduce overprovisioning, automate routine planning that requires high-level expertise, reduce provisioning errors, etc.
The breakthrough in HW prices is possible since the second phase when traditional hardware start being replaced by the white-box alternatives.