Messaging services vendor Interop Technologies runs three data centers to provide services to customers and to run its own back-office systems. Interop also provides turnkey hardware/software solutions that run at customer sites. Pandemic-related hardware shortages, particularly those of servers and storage, have put a severe crimp in the way it does business.

Now that we understand the challenges for today's telcos, we understand that, in order to succeed, telcos need to embrace the changes and challenges within their market. Yes, consumers want different solutions and services than they did a decade ago. Yes, voice calls and SMS messaging will no longer be the core component of increasing ARPU. Yes, the Over-The-Top (OTT) players have changed the game with their innovative eye and quick-to-market solutions.