Automation using an external controller in a segment-routed network provides bandwidth guarantees and distribution of traffic to achieve higher network utilization. This application note examines how the Nokia Network Services Platform (NSP) acts as path computation element (PCE), as defined by the IETF, to control traffic in real time with high performance. It also includes case studies that describe how network operators are using the Nokia NSP for everything from 5G automation and network slicing to traffic optimization and reliable interconnection services.