As cities evolve into interconnected hubs of technology, the demand for robust and intelligent network infrastructure has never been greater. With the rapid expansion of 5G and IoT applications, optimizing Radio Access Network (RAN) design has become a crucial factor in ensuring seamless connectivity, efficient data transmission, and enhanced user experiences. Smarter cities rely on advanced network solutions such as small cells, distributed antenna systems (DAS), and dynamic spectrum management to support high-density environments, large-scale events, and mission-critical applications. By utilizing innovative RAN strategies, urban landscapes can unlock new levels of connectivity, paving the way for smarter, more efficient, and highly responsive digital ecosystems.
With the rapid expansion of 5G networks and increasing reliance on advanced telecommunications infrastructure, Aqsa Sayed has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the deployment and optimization of next-generation wireless networks. As a seasoned expert in radio access networks (RAN) and small cell solutions, she has led critical initiatives that have significantly improved network efficiency, reduced operational costs, and enhanced connectivity in high-density urban areas.
Notably, one of her achievements includes leading the deployment of 5G and LTE Small Cell solutions for Major Tier1 Operators in USA, achieving a 90% success rate across major regions such as Austin, San Antonio, and the Valley areas. Her efforts have directly contributed to improved service quality in densely populated locations, ensuring seamless connectivity for millions of users. Beyond city-wide deployments, Sayed has been instrumental in implementing high-density event site solutions for Tier I Operator, ensuring uninterrupted network performance for large-scale events such as SXSW, ACL, and the COTA F1 Grand Prix.
Sayed has also spearheaded innovative approaches to RAN design, creating efficient custom design templates that have since become the standard for deployment in Austin. These templates have not only streamlined design processes but have also indirectly resulted in lower project costs. In parallel, she developed efficient methodologies for synchronizing RF datasets with live network databases, achieving an impressive 90% operational accuracy. This alignment has eliminated discrepancies and improved the overall reliability of network operations.
As the RF Engineering Lead at Amdocs, Sayed has served as a key point of contact for Major Tier 1 operators in USA , ensuring seamless execution of RAN strategies and delivering consistent quality across projects. Her leadership has been instrumental in maintaining a success rate of over 90% in network deployments over the past six years. One of her key contributions has been the development of a streamlined review process, which eliminated database redundancy by 80% “By ensuring that all stakeholders had access to unified data and design sheets before progressing to application and lease execution, this initiative significantly reduced costs associated with minor errors” she mentioned. Furthermore, her introduction of an automated site information process has reduced manual effort by 80%, greatly improving efficiency for engineers.
Moreover, Sayed’s work has also had a significant impact on cost savings and network performance. Her RAN strategies for venue and DAS solutions have resulted in a 5% reduction in operational expenditure (OPEX) overall. Additionally, her leadership in macro and small cell deployments has maintained a 90% success rate in smooth site launches. By implementing certain automation protocols, she has been able to assist in reducing delays for launch times by 10%, allowing for faster project completions.
Throughout her career, she has tackled significant challenges, including the need to scale network deployments efficiently. To address this, she has assisted in developing standardized templates and automated CIQ generation processes, ensuring that network databases remained 95% accurate. This level of precision has directly contributed to reduced timelines from initial site design to full-scale network launch.
The contributions extend beyond corporate projects, as she has also provided consultancy for high-profile organizations. She played a key role in Tier 1 Operator’s National RF Planning Team on behalf of LCC International, designing small cells to overcome challenges in metropolitan areas. She also conducted in-depth spectrum interference analysis during the band 71 spectrum auction for Tier 1 company, to provide assurance & securing some portion of the band. More recently, she has been supporting the design needs for SpaceX’s Distributed Antenna System (DAS) and Macro network, both before and after its launch on behalf of Amdocs for a Tier 1 Operator.
A recognized thought leader in the field, she has published influential research on key industry topics, including 5G Deployment Strategies and Interference Management in Dense Urban Areas, Evolution and Challenges in 5G Telecommunications, and Dynamic Spectrum Sharing Technologies. Her insights into interoperability challenges in IoT and network performance optimization have guided industry best practices.
Looking ahead, she foresees a continued shift towards AI-driven network optimization, leveraging machine learning to minimize interference and maximize efficiency. As smart city initiatives gain momentum, she anticipates an increasing demand for seamless integration between small cells, DAS, and IoT-enabled networks. Furthermore, she highlights the growing role of edge computing in supporting low-latency applications such as autonomous vehicles.
Aqsa Sayed’s expertise, strategic vision, and innovative problem-solving have positioned her as a leading force in 5G deployment and network optimization. Her contributions have not only advanced connectivity in urban landscapes but have also set new standards for efficiency in the telecommunications industry.
