Telecom or all

Its agreement with Vodafone to devise implementations of Web services standards makes Microsoft a more credible contender to provide infrastructure for wireless applications. Microsoft competitors should embrace the initiative a positive step for the industry and use it as an opportunity to promote Web services strategies in the wireless sector.

Only 10 percent of wireless subscribers call DA “at least once a month.” Still, at an average of $1.45 per call - plus minutes of use - DA is one of the top revenue enhancers for wireless carriers. The Cellular Telephone and Internet Association (CTIA) must balance caller convenience against wireless subscribers' inherent concerns over privacy.

AT&T Wireless’ selection of Tellme/Volt/Verizon to replace live agent shop Metro One for outsourced directory assistance shifts the DA industry’s focus squarely to full-on automated speech. DA is characterized by high call volumes, transaction-based pricing and a proven business model. Zelos Group sees the move to 100% automation accelerating in 2003-2004.