ETSI Book ceremony: 7 April 2009, Nice Acropolis, France
As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, ETSI, working in collaboration with John Wiley & Sons Ltd, published a book entitled 'ICT Shaping the world' in which some thirty world famous researchers describe their view of the future in ICT. The result is a fascinating vision of tomorrow's technological and industrial world, highlighting the close links between R&D and standardization.
But even since the conception of this book, which was only published at the beginning of 2009, the current global economic crisis is affecting this entire relationship, and questions are already being asked about the future for standardization and R&D. Will the world of standardization have to become multidisciplinary, with a segmented approach to markets? Will unique, single standards, endorsed by all, be the way to ensure the best interoperability among emerging technologies? What of the new balance to be found between industrial policies and free enterprise and where will standards fit in?
It was with such questions in mind that ETSI convened a Round Table debate to which several of the book's contributors and other ICT experts were invited. Their discussions took place in the presence of some 150 ETSI member representatives, press and guests, and resulted in a lively and productive debate of these key issues.
John Phillips, Chairman of the ETSI General Assembly, stressed the importantce of R&D being performed with a clear commercial end in view: 'We are all aware of the importance of research to come up with bright ideas, but the goal is not merely to aim for bright ideas, but for ideas that can be turned into commercial successes and this is where standardization comes in, as the vital link between research and markets.'
Other participants confirmed this view, stressing the role of standards in unifying potentially fragemented markets and in ensuring that technical and operational criteria are fully met, for the mutual benefit of the industry, regulators and the end user.
ETSI's Director-General, Dr Walter Weigel, concluded the event with a strong commitment on behalf of ETSI to successfully balance all interests: 'This debate has highlighted both the complexity of the situation and the major importance of standards to ensure market success. Based on current innovative business model proposals, we will strive within ETSI to determine the best strategic options to be offered to customers, focusing on supplying value through systems engineering activities, software products and professional services. Our vision is that ETSI will be known as the best standards body for researchers to come to with their bright ideas."
Download: Press kit, speakers' biographies
To receive a copy of the book, email to cindy.dedelley@etsi.org providing your name, your company name and full address.