Implementing an end-to-end triple-play architecture has a major impact on operational processes. Most of the existing legacy business/operations support system (B/OSS) solutions have functional limits and are not able to support next-generation architectures and the introduction of new services. Service providers are aware of this, but most look at the transformation of their B/OSS as outside their core competencies and use the strategy of engaging outside system integration service vendors to successfully deploy triple-play services. The format of this session will be in forms of questions and answers between the chair and the panelists, followed by audience's questions and answers.

Johanne Mayer Director, OSS and NM Solutions Marketing Alcatel

Ms. Mayer joined Alcatel in 1994 through the Newbridge acquisition. She is the spokesperson for operations support system (OSS) and network management products and solutions with industry analysts and the press as well as a director of the Board of the TeleManagement Forum, elected in 2005. She is a frequent speaker at OSS conferences and represents Alcatel at various global forums. During her twenty years in the industry, she has worked as a support engineer, product manager, and marketing director, always focused on carrier operations.

Leopold Helmut Director, Platform and Technology Management Telekom Austria AG

Mr. Leopold has been with Telekom Austria since 1999. He is responsible for the network, product, and IT development as well as product management for the wholesale unit. Previously, from 1994, he filled various management positions at Alcatel. From 1989 to 1994, he served as a research engineer at Alcatel ELIN Research Center, where he covered high-performance networking and multimedia communications. Mr. Leopold has always been involved in European broadband projects (ESPRIT, RACE, ACTS, IST, and COST) and in international standardization (ETSI).

Nicolas Ruelle Chief Information Officer IT Network and Services France Telecom Group

Dr. Ruelle's experience in the telecommunications industry spans mobile, wireline; and IP networks; digital TV; network security; IT; and systems design. He has an extensive R&D and operations background. He has also contributed significantly to the international standards setting, particularly for 3G mobile, an area in which he was one of the pioneers. He is a co-founder and former chief operating officer of France Telecom Group spin-off company Netcelo SA.

Alphonzo Samuels Broadband Officer Telkom South Africa

Mr. Samuels was appointed broadband officer of Telkom in December 2005. Prior to this appointment, he held various positions in planning, engineering, operations, capital project management, and human resources. In 2002 he was appointed as executive of Access Network Operations. His tenure at Telkom includes a nine-month assignment with SBC (AT&T) in 1998. He joined Telkom in 1984. He holds a Bachelor's of Technology in management as well as a National Technical Diploma in telecommunications and a National Diploma in human resource management.