Virtualization and cloud platforms could transform an MNO’s economics and services, but even for the most advanced, software-driven operator, there are still many physical elements to consider, and in the wrong environment, those can wreck the shiny new business case. This was highlighted this month by various news items from Vodafone. The group has an advanced virtualization program, Project Ocean, and some of its operating companies are also moving rapidly towards modern platforms. Just last week, Vodafone India said it would deploy Nokia’s Cloud Packet Core to help with the push to become a digital operator; and Vodafone Qatar is also working with Nokia to deploy a modern, flexible core. But in the same week, Vodafone UK’s general counsel, Helen…