The growth of convergence means companies, government and regulators cannot afford to go on as if it is business as usual, says Marius Mostert.
Mostert, chairperson of the Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (Satnac), notes the move towards converged solutions requires a shift from business, government and regulators. He addressed the Satnac event, in Swaziland, this week.
“When you map out what is happening with convergence, we see that it is not business as usual for businesses. Not for the application developers or the service providers,” he said.
He added that future trends in the converged space have come under intense discussion from government, regulators and the industry as operators move towards offering converged solutions. Mostert noted that all sectors, from network operators and service providers to industry regulators, have to be prepared for imminent changes.
“Each sector has got to apply its mind in its area of responsibility to effectively deal with the challenges that convergence brings.”
Representatives from business organisations, operators, government and academic institutions attended Satnac 2009, which is hosted by Telkom. The conference, which is in its 12th year, was attended by 400 people and featured presentations by the industry on trends and challenges, and new research and developments on convergence solutions.
Mapping regulation
Mostert said political will is important and that governments have a key role to play in the successful adoption of converged solutions. He added that government cannot be excluded from any discussions as it has to ensure convergence achieves what it sets out to do.
The role of regulators is also vital, he added. Mostert noted that discussions on how regulation can enable convergence, guide technological developments and new business models are important and should involve all stakeholders.
“Regulation could effectively render useful technologies worthless. Regulators need to see what they have to do to ensure they don't inhibit this lifestyle change.”
The deliberations at the conference will show what should be done and provide much greater insight into making the shift to convergence a success, he concluded.
Related story:
To infinity and beyond
Share