How can MNOs reduce carbon emissions?

With a current worldwide focus on climate change and environmental impacts, the telecommunications sector is being asked to examine how it can reduce its emissions and be more environmentally responsible.  At the same time, the industry is in a unique position of providing solutions to enterprises, individuals and governments worldwide to cut pollution from transport[…]

A symbiotic ecosystem – how Google contributes to the telecom sector

Plum prepared a major study exploring the mutually beneficial relationships that exist between participants in the telecommunications sector, including connectivity providers and online service providers. The study sets out a view of the wider telecoms sector and value chain, and identifies a number of mutually beneficial relationships that exist between sector players, and which serve[…]

How the Internet works (and is paid for)

The Internet has been one of the most life-changing and fast-growing technologies in the world. According to the latest ITU estimates, 4.9 billion individuals around the globe are using the Internet, which is 4.8 times more than in 2005. The average global Internet user spends around 7 hours per day online, and in 2021 alone,[…]

Diversification of the UK telecommunications supply chain: Building UK capability

This report for DCMS developed an evidence base to support policy thinking and the business case for actions to build UK capability in key technology areas identified by the Telecommunications Diversity Task Force. It sets out a summary of Plum’s research findings, proposals for interventions and supporting rationale, theories of change and an evaluation on[…]

Wireless Systems Scoping Study

Report co-authored by Robert Thelen-Bartholomew An analysis of wireless system requirements within the Hong Kong Hospital Authority estate. Specifically, consideration on the use of 5G networks, both private and public in the delivery of Hong Kong Hospital Authority requirements for voice and data. The project included an analysis of use cases, network design, and budgetary[…]

Digital ecosystem – Context and market review

In order to support AFD in its prospecting for funding in certain countries, Plum carried out a study of the digital and telecom ecosystems of Myanmar, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Ivory Coast. The study provides a review of the legal and regulatory framework, the existing national infrastructures, the leading entities as well as the potential[…]

Ethics in digital technologies

The omnipresence of digital technology in our daily life, its use and its impact on organisations and individuals, raises ethical questions about its role in our society. These concerns include consent and privacy, security, inclusion and fairness, protection from online harm, transparency and accountability. Notable examples include the Cambridge Analytica scandal and concerns about racial[…]

The ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025

Plum was recently engaged to develop the latest ASEAN Digital Masterplan (ADM 2025). The ADM takes stock of the current state of digital development in ASEAN, and envisions ways for the ASEAN region to deepen its use of digital technologies to spur economic and social development. ADM 2025 was the third strategic masterplan for the[…]

Privacy implications of an automated cyber-security system – with or without the human loop

‘Star Wars’ is the classic example of a symbiotic human-machine relationship. The ‘force’ guided the human actions which were supported by data driven inputs from the ‘droids’. Being guided by the ‘force’ is nothing but human ability to use our intuition and exercise judgement. Though a work of fiction, the classic, might have essential food[…]