Automation is the best way to scale network deployment and operations. But the lack of formal standards in the field cause delays and wasted resources. In this episode of the Tech Field Day Podcast, Tom Hollingsworth is joined by Denise Donohue, Steve Puluka, and Kevin Myers. They discuss how some common things have emerged more from consensus and not from formalized standards bodies. The panel also discuss the value of using open ideas and not being forced into a single-vendor solution. They also discuss regulations and the likelihood that an organization like the IETF or IEEE will pick up the task of formalizing automation standards.