Give voice

Citation

(2005), "Give voice", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 54 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijppm.2005.07954aab.006

Give voice

ITSPA (Internet Telephony Service Providers Association) has welcomed Ofcom’s (the UK telecoms regulator) new and positive approach towards the “New Voice” sector, declaring it to be forward-looking, whilst maintaining a careful and considered balance between emerging technologies, consumer concerns and the launch of the new internet telephony age. ITSPA was formed to provide a single voice from the internet telephony industry in response to the initial position of Ofcom in the numerous consultations taking place, which ITSPA members deemed to not be favourable.

A number of key issues remain, including portability and the commercial viability of ported numbers. Under the current “onward routing” method, the ongoing costs for portability are a significant barrier to porting, which in turn, is a significant barrier to the mass market, at both consumer and business level

Kim Thesiger, co-founder of Gossiptel and a founder member of ITSPA says, “Whilst the UK remains behind the curve, on take-up and provision of internet telephony services, Ofcom’s announcement has opened up the playing field, by removing many of the uncertainties for the category. The broader concerns remain on portability, broadband penetration, and an ability to offer primary line new voice services. We will help Ofcom deliver its goal of limiting full regulation by providing a suitable environment for self- or co-regulatory activity. ITSPA will continue to work with EU and Ofcom, to ensure that these interim guidelines, are in the main, accepted, for final policy statement.”