Hybrid standards setting solutions for today´s convergent telecommunications market

Telecommunications and information technology are merging, suggesting that the formal standardization process used throughout the evolution of the telecommunications industry may be no longer adequate. Although multiple alternative methods of standardization have gained support, no single method has proven to be superior. There is a need for a hybrid solution that works to encompass the positive aspects of traditional SDOs, market-driven consortia, and the international standard setting organizations in developing international telecommunications standards. This paper proposes a model of such a hybrid solution and explores ways in which the formal and informal standards bodies might work together to meet the need for an efficient overall standards setting system. The paper examine the strengths and weaknesses of both systems including the merits and possibilities of collaboration. The research approach is based primarily on interviews and questionnaires of leaders and experts in both the telecommunications and IT fields and encompasses both formal/traditional and informal/newer bodies. Perhaps this research will serve to stimulate and guide further study for an industry that is in need of an efficient standard setting mechanism