Paper Type
Complete
Paper Number
PACIS2025-1487
Description
This study investigates the sociotechnical factors shaping Software‐Defined Networking (SDN) adoption within a major African Internet Service Provider (ISP). Employing a qualitative, single case-study, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with network professionals across provisioning, support, automation, and core teams. Using a thematic analysis, we identified key technical challenges: vendor inconsistency, software maturity and reliability, lack of trust and stability, and cost‐benefit consideration, while technical enablers include efficiency gained through automation, cost-benefit analysis and transformative potential. Social dimensions highlight knowledge gaps, skill erosion, developing a new way of thinking, resistance to change, and the need for a learning culture, while social enablers encompass factors such as perceived cost‐effectiveness, strong vendor relationships, and evolving network professional roles. These findings are synthesized into a conceptual framework illustrating the dynamic interplay of technical and social dimensions. Grounded in the lived experiences of network professionals, this paper offers actionable insights for ISPs navigating SDN transitions.
Recommended Citation
Oosterwyk, Grant; Dang, Duong; and de Reuck, Sidney, "A Sociotechnical Perspective on Software-defined Networking Adoption in Large-Scale ISPs" (2025). PACIS 2025 Proceedings. 3.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/pacis2025/general_topic/general_topic/3
A Sociotechnical Perspective on Software-defined Networking Adoption in Large-Scale ISPs
This study investigates the sociotechnical factors shaping Software‐Defined Networking (SDN) adoption within a major African Internet Service Provider (ISP). Employing a qualitative, single case-study, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with network professionals across provisioning, support, automation, and core teams. Using a thematic analysis, we identified key technical challenges: vendor inconsistency, software maturity and reliability, lack of trust and stability, and cost‐benefit consideration, while technical enablers include efficiency gained through automation, cost-benefit analysis and transformative potential. Social dimensions highlight knowledge gaps, skill erosion, developing a new way of thinking, resistance to change, and the need for a learning culture, while social enablers encompass factors such as perceived cost‐effectiveness, strong vendor relationships, and evolving network professional roles. These findings are synthesized into a conceptual framework illustrating the dynamic interplay of technical and social dimensions. Grounded in the lived experiences of network professionals, this paper offers actionable insights for ISPs navigating SDN transitions.
Comments
General