Interoperability for Multimedia Services: The Approach of the Standards Bodies - An Overview Based on ACTS Guideline SII G06

In the open telecommunication market characterised by deregulation and global competition, new technology is constantly being introduced into products, systems and networks. Network providers build networks that consist of products from multiple vendors; service providers are faced with the challenge of providing services over heterogeneous computing and network environments. Achieving interoperability, defined as the capability of two or more items to work constructively together in achieving a common goal, should therefore be the ultimate goal of technically oriented activities in communications, including co-operation, standardisation, and technical regulation. In an open environment, interoperability brings benefits to the market, to the supply side as well as to the demand side. Interoperable products and services: • can achieve a shorter time to market, • help a market develop faster, • achieve lower development, introduction, maintenance and ownership costs, • help to sustain open competition in the market