The evolution of next-generation networks (NGNs) is under way, and will present enormous opportunities for the ICT sector, South African Telecommunication Network and Application Conference delegates heard yesterday.
According to Siemens Communications, by the end of 2007, there will be 19 million subscribers to video services worldwide.
With the advent of combined offerings for voice, Internet and TV/video on-demand, home networks are starting to converge as well, providing new areas of opportunity, said Malan Smith, divisional director at Siemens.
However, migrating to the next generation in order to take advantage of these opportunities will take enormous investment, said Joe Gallagher, Unisys VP and managing partner.
The industry must also be clear on what it will provide, how well the services will perform and how the providers will guarantee it. It must also be clear how easy the services are to adopt, he added.
Telkom COO Reuben September and Virgin Mobile CEO Sajeed Sacranie emphasised the customer service element, which drives adoption.
Sacranie further stated that the South African business sector, including the ICT sector, must increase its customer service standards. "We need to provide services that offer value and simplicity and try to keep clear of acronyms. We need to walk the talk, not just state that customers are central to our business."
Judith O`Neal, chairperson of the telecoms department of Greenberg Traurig, noted there is huge interest in investing in the ICT sector as a result of the evolution, as evidenced by the mergers and acquisitions that have been taking place worldwide.
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