In this Lightwave article, Steven Robinson of Meriton Networks asserts that the cost structure of WDM networks is shifting  from most Capital Expenses to Operating Expenses due to reduced equipment prices and increasing and more complex usage patterns by the consumer.

Agile optical networks are designed to address this trend through automated network lifecycle planning, ROADM technology and dynamic provisioning through the use of  ROADM’s and programmable hardware. The article contains additional information on the above.