Chapter 17
Wireless Market Modeling
Market modeling is an important and complex task that frequently is under-estimated in its importance and complexity. Chapter 3 explains the principles of market modeling, while this chapter gives a more operational approach based on the findings of Chapter 3. The following are the main tasks of this phase.
17.1 Findings Phase
In this phase, designers work in close proximity with the operator and gather as much information as possible about the operator plans, and the market itself. A business plan is not always available and, often, the operator has not evaluated all the intricacies of such a deployment.
The ideal scenario would be to start from a business plan or prepare one if it does not exist; alternatively a minimum amount of information should be gathered directly from the operator. A questionnaire, such as the one presented in Chapter 1, can be a good start.
The project budget is fundamental for a design. In the past we designed 100+ sites networks based on client's requirements, to find out that the available budget was for only ten sites.
17.2 Area of Interest (AoI) Modeling
The Area of Interest should be defined in the marketing plan. Unfortunately it is common that vague terms are used to define the AoI, such as: the whole city or the urban area.
The AoI should be defined geographically, through one or more polygons. This definition is very important as it limits the extent of the wireless design. The AoI should also specify for ...
