Bitesize Fiber Wrapped 2025: End of Year Special!
In this special year-end episode of Bitesize Fiber, the IQGeo team reflects on a year defined by rapid digital transformation, major advances in fiber network construction, and the growing influence of AI across the telecom industry. Kicking things off with holiday chaos stories from the field, the conversation quickly expands into a deeper look at the operational challenges and technology breakthroughs shaping modern fiber deployments.
Host Ellie Puls is joined by Stephen Baker, Greg Ross, James Roche and Stefan Schneider.
The group shares major “wow” moments from 2025 - from the accelerating shift away from paper-based processes to the remarkable progress in digital permitting workflows, pole audits, and make-ready engineering. With many providers still navigating workforce shortages, permitting delays, and the complexity of multi-vendor builds, the team highlights how smarter tools, standardized data, and real-time visibility are becoming essential to scaling fiber network rollouts efficiently.
A major theme of the episode is the rise of real-time visual AI and computer vision in telecom. The hosts discuss how automated photo analysis, field sensor data, and predictive models are starting to reshape quality assurance, network documentation, and operational decision-making. As they point out, 2025 marked a turning point, from talking about the opportunities of AI, to applying it to reduce costs, improve accuracy, and streamline field operations.
The conversation also explores the renewed momentum around BEAD funding and the push for rural broadband expansion. With states seeking ways to simplify permitting and accelerate deployment, the team highlights emerging strategies such as statewide digital permit submissions, standardized construction documentation, and smarter digital twins that improve communication between ISPs and municipalities.
Looking ahead to 2026, the hosts predict significant advancements in network automation, data contextualization, and wholesale network operations, especially as overbuilders look for scalable OSS/BSS alternatives and rely more heavily on intelligent workflows rather than traditional manual processes.
Blending candid stories, industry insights, and a look ahead to 2026, this episode wraps the year with honesty, humor, and a shared optimism for what’s next.
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