Chapter 6 : SERVICES , OPTIMIZATION , AND ECONOMIC ASPECTS

Future broadband wireless services will involve a range of different technologies, all with varying characteristics. These differences can influence significantly how a service is defined and deployed as well as how it is commercially offered to customers. Key technologies and services that will influence and shape the future broadband telecommunication market include WiFi services based on IEEE 802.11 standards, enhanced UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) services, mobile grid services, incoming call handling services, and finally alternative approaches to broadband access such as high aerial platforms. Each of these technologies and services has unique requirements in terms of deployment and management. Commercial offerings of value-added telecommunication services require appropriate support mechanisms, since the wired and wireless Internet design principles and architecture were originally not concerned with commercialization. These commercialization support mechanisms involve typical elements of business transactions, such as Authentication, Authorization, Accounting, Auditing, and Charging (A4C), but also automated contract formation procedures. In addition to requirements from the provider-side, there are also new requirements from the user-side. Wireless service users today seek greater choice and customization in accessing telecommunications services. This creates the need for user-controlled flexibility in service delivery, including full portability freedom. Requirements from both the provider and the customer side will shape new business models and their corresponding support mechanisms in terms of A4C.