How Global Capability Centers are becoming the innovation core of AI-driven telecom transformation

A decade ago, a typical boardroom conversation around Global Capability Centers (GCCs) was straightforward: how much cost can we save, and how quickly can we scale operations offshore? Fast forward to today, and that same conversation has fundamentally changed. Leaders are no longer asking where to optimize—they are asking where the next product will be built, where AI models will be trained, and where the future of their business will be shaped. In an increasingly digital and AI-driven world, GCCs have quietly transitioned from back-office enablers to frontline architects of enterprise growth—nowhere more so than in telecom.

The GCC ecosystem today is estimated at USD 300–350 billion globally, with projections toward USD 1 trillion over the next decade (NASSCOM, Zinnov). India leads with 1,700+ GCCs, USD 60–65B value, and ~2M professionals.

Telecom GCCs contribute ~10–15% of the ecosystem across network engineering, OSS/BSS, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud.

GCCs have evolved from cost efficiency to growth engines—driving product innovation, customer experience, and revenue generation.

Telecom is entering an AI-driven era with autonomous networks, AI-RAN, and 6G. Revenue is shifting to enterprise, APIs, IoT, and edge.

The next decade will be defined by an AI supercycle. GCCs will act as global AI hubs, accelerating innovation and enabling new business models.

Beyond business, GCCs drive jobs, innovation ecosystems, and skill transformation globally.

If the first chapter of GCCs was about efficiency, the next will be about intelligence, innovation, and growth. The future will be built through GCCs.

– Kirit Hindocha
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirithindocha

Author is a senior leader in the telecom industry with extensive experience in establishing and operationalizing Global Capability Center (GCC) for a leading telecom vendor.

References

NASSCOM GCC India Report, 2024

Zinnov GCC Reports, 2024–2025

Deloitte Insights

EY GCC Study

McKinsey Global Institute