Irby Announces Partnership with Biarri Networks.
Irby, a subsidiary of Sonepar, announced an innovative partnership with Biarri Networks, global provider of OSP fiber optic network design software and services.
Irby named Biarri Networks as its fiber optic design and engineering partner following an extensive selection process, with the key criteria being cultural fit, contribution to the industry, and a proven history of innovation in the telecom sector.
The impact of this partnership has been immediate, with an initial project realizing significant savings: 400 miles less fiber will be installed than originally estimated, with cost savings of around US$5.5 million. This is a direct benefit to a rural community of around 90,000 people.
The innovative Irby-Biarri approach uses geospatial data, along with pre-defined architectural and underlying business rules, then algorithmically automates and optimizes the design process—right from concept and high-level design through to the point of construction pack delivery.
“This partnership positions Irby to support the rollout of fiber optic networks to their customers and communities more swiftly and affordably than ever before,” said Paul Sulisz, SVP of Americas, Biarri Networks. “It’s a huge win for rural America.”
Geff Smith, VP Technology and Communications for Irby said, “With Biarri as our design partner we have far better certainty of, and visibility over, the cost and revenue profile for our customers looking to build broadband networks.”
“This level of clarity lets us balance budget costs with service delivery to improve our IRR (Internal Rate of Return),” he added. Having such a high degree of accuracy in a project’s valuation so early on also supports critical CapEx investment decisions, such as grants, VC, RUS, and CAF II.
“The innovation that we bring to OSP design and engineering really turns the traditional approach on its head and allows for a focus on specific community needs and business outcomes. When we can make these key drivers, it’s awesome to see the right networks built better, and delivered faster, all for a much lower cost,” said Paul Sulisz, SVP of Americas, Biarri Networks.