These challenges relate to virtually every aspect of the new network, the methods of access to the network, the devices attached to the network, and the many ways users and services interact with the network. A key issue here is the wide range of user interfaces for these devices. In the area of access , the focus of the research is to eliminate the 'World Wide Wait' that consumers and businesses find when they access the Internet via modems and low speed access lines. In the area of the platform , the focus is on creating a robust and reliable IP architecture that will enable rapid and efficient deployment of new services, as well as simple interconnections to outside networks. Finally, in the area of operations , the focus is on lowering costs by creating modern tools for integrated billing, services provisioning, usage recording, fraud detection, etc.
Research becomes the creator and driver of the technology directions of the company.
This would create a stable budget with ample opportunities for growth and strategic investment as the corporation grows its revenues. I hope that everyone has a clear picture of the degree of technological change that the company is experiencing. We all play a role in effecting this change, and it is my strong hope that we all understand our part in this process. As usual, I invite your comments, criticisms, as well as suggestions for issues for discussion in future Forum Notes. View the archive of forum articles.