AI will change the way we operate telecom networks. But what’s the best way to get there? How should we introduce AI to get the benefits it promises but avoid duplication, conflicts among different AI models, and undesired outcomes? How do we know AI models will deliver what we expect? In this Sparring Partners, Per Kangru and Takai Eddine Kennouche at VIAVI Solutions shared their AIOps practical experience and vision for integrating AI and ML in network operations in an efficient and streamlined way and preserving the reliability and quality of experience that are non-negotiable. AI will play a role in multiple network functions and use cases. Which contribution should be centralized, and which distributed? What is the role of AIOps, AI testing AI, digital twins, and prompt engineering in making AI succeed? How can operators avoid the AI lock-in? Should they embrace hyperscalers and their big models or develop in-house solutions?