Change-the future of the telecommunications industry

A tidal wave of change is headed towards the telecommunication industry, and it will ultimately transform the economic, social and political environment for nearly every person in the world. Much of this change is being brought about by technological innovation and the information revolution-the convergence of computing, communication and information. Organisations that acknowledge and prepare for this revolution will emerge as winners. When mains electricity first became generally available many firms went out of business, the steam engine became obsolete, and suppliers of gas lighting closed their doors. Digital technology represents a similar step change for the communications and information industries. Digital technology creates homogenised, easily delivered information that is instantly convertible into whatever form the user chooses. Four primary factors are driving this change: government and regulation, competition, technology and market demand