Energy planning in sub-Saharan African telecom networks : decision support using a soft systems methodology

Abstract

This research paper narrates the application of the soft systems methodology (SSM) as a problem structuring tool, as well as the first step of a methodological approach that will provide decision support based on multi-criteria decision analysis in the planning of energy for telecom networks across sub-Saharan Africa. To ensure applicability of the methodology to a real-world issue, an international telecom tower company based in East Africa was selected as the case study. The SSM is utilized to characterize the decision problem context precisely, identify major stakeholder groups and their connections, and to discover each one's interests. This helps to achieve appropriate and holistic energy planning and management unlike the current trends which employ a reductionist approach. The outcome of the work leads to a model using SSM where stakeholder inputs can be captured, for the telecom company.