OpenLSO
OpenLSO (Open Lifecycle Service Orchestration (LSO)) is a Model Evaluation Framework (MEF) framework and set of specifications for LSO of carrier Ethernet and other MEF-defined services across multi-operator and multi-technology environments (network and service orchestration).
- Defines reference architectures and functional components for LSO (network and service orchestration).
- Supports end-to-end automation of ordering, provisioning, assurance, and billing workflows for MEF services (service lifecycle management).
- Enables interoperability between service providers, operators, and technology domains through standardized APIs and information models (interoperability framework).
- Aligns with MEF’s broader Third Network and LSO reference architecture, including east–west and north–south interface definitions (network architecture framework).
- Targets integration with OSS/BSS, SDN/NFV controllers, and network elements for coordinated service delivery and operations (operations integration).
More About OpenLSO
OpenLSO (Open LSO) is part of MEF’s LSO program and focuses on practical realization of LSO concepts for MEF-defined services such as Carrier Ethernet, IP, and other standardized connectivity services (network and service orchestration). It addresses the need for structured, interoperable orchestration across multiple providers and technology domains, from customer-facing systems through to network control and infrastructure layers.
The OpenLSO initiative works within the broader MEF LSO reference architecture, which defines functional blocks and standardized interfaces for the full service lifecycle, including design, ordering, provisioning, monitoring, modification, and termination (service lifecycle management). Within this context, OpenLSO is oriented toward open, implementable specifications and project artifacts that help carriers and service providers operationalize LSO concepts in production environments.
Core capabilities associated with OpenLSO include definition and clarification of LSO functional components, reference points, and APIs used to coordinate OSS/BSS platforms, service orchestration systems, and underlying Software Defined Networking (SDN) or Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) controllers (operations integration). This covers north–south interfaces between business systems and network control, as well as east–west interfaces between different service providers or administrative domains (interoperability framework). The work aligns with MEF service models and information specifications to keep orchestration logic consistent with formal service definitions.
In enterprise and carrier environments, OpenLSO is used as a reference and framework for building multi-domain and multi-operator automation stacks that support MEF-compliant services (network operations). It provides guidance on how to implement service ordering, activation, assurance, change management, and billing workflows in a way that is consistent across internal domains and external partner interfaces. This is relevant for providers that interconnect to deliver end-to-end Ethernet and IP services, and need coordinated lifecycle control across each participating network.
OpenLSO fits within categories such as network and service orchestration, OSS/BSS integration, and telecom operations automation (network and service management). It is positioned alongside other MEF LSO elements that specify APIs and data models for service and network operations. For enterprises and carriers that align their architectures with MEF’s frameworks, OpenLSO functions as an implementation-oriented anchor for orchestrating standardized MEF services, promoting consistent workflows, and simplifying integration across heterogeneous vendor and provider environments.