Intelligent networks: the requirements of a service provider

The author describes the requirements of an intelligent network provider concentrating on the barriers and drivers to the take up of intelligent networks, INs, by industry and business. INs have the potential for rapid market growth provided that network operators and associated service providers can take full account of user needs. Sensitivity to user requirements will be needed in the design, marketing and presentation of intelligent network services if the market is to be developed. The author presents his own personal views of the potential barriers to the uptake of INs from a user perspective and describes some applications of intelligent network services for the industrial and commercial markets