Every year, IHS Markit takes the pulse of the optical networking industry by evaluating the top global networking equipment vendors. The analyst firm gathers direct feedback from buyers and measures against key purchasing decision criteria, including product reliability, technology innovation and other key benchmarks. This year’s survey report covers and elaborates on three areas considered hot topics within the industry: Data Center Interconnect (DCI), optical network automation, and next-generation ROADM/line systems. This neutral, third-party survey from an industry analyst firm eliminates subjectivity and ensures vendors are assessed accurately and fairly. This particular 2019 'excerpts' paper was provided specifically for Ciena. For the complete report, contact IHS Markit directly.