Growth through transformation

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Twenty-first century network
The twenty-first century network (21CN) is at the heart of our transformation strategy, underpinning broadband, networked IT services and convergent mobility services, flexibly and cost effectively. It will lead to a radical simplification of our networks, making it easier for us – and the other telecommunications operators who interconnect with our networks – to offer compelling converged propositions for all our customers.

The 21CN programme has three broad objectives:

• to enhance the service experience, flexibility and value we provide to all our customers;

• to accelerate the delivery of innovative new products and services to market; and

• to reduce costs radically.

We began technical trials during the 2005 financial year. For example, we conducted a trial in which we moved voice traffic from the traditional public voice network onto an internet protocol (IP) network. It may have gone largely unnoticed, but 7 January 2005 may turn out to be a key date in the history of telecommunications, because that was the day that saw the first end-to-end IP voice call.

In April 2005, we announced the eight preferred suppliers that we expect will help to build and implement the 21CN. The announcement was the culmination of two years of discussions with over 300 potential technology suppliers – one of the largest procurement programmes ever undertaken in the communications industry.

And in order to ensure that all other operators understand what the 21CN means for them and have a chance to input their ideas, we’ve launched a programme of industry consultation – Consult21.