SAMPLE PROJECTS

- Business Plans and Strategies
- Regulatory Assistance and Sector Restructuring
- Training and Reports on Regulatory Reform and Convergence
- Wireless Communications

BUSINESS PLANS AND STRATEGIES

Africa - Project Consulting for Telecommunications Company
TMG studied the billing and collection systems for an African telecommunications company. Based on TMG's recommendations, a request for proposals for a new billing system was prepared and issued. TMG recommendations integrated several U.S. and European manufacturers and systems suppliers to modernize this company's billing system to provide better service to consumers and increase company revenues.

Africa and Middle East - Design of Cost Model for Interconnection Price for Mobile Operator
TMG worked with a mobile operator with operations throughout Africa and the Middle East to develop an approach to determine their interconnection tariffs based on a consistent costing methodology.  TMG conducted a comprehensive regulatory analysis of each country in which the client operates and a strategic market review of its business goals in order to assist the operator in the design of a suitable cost model for interconnection pricing based on Long Run Incremental Cost (LRIC).  TMG designed a LRIC based wireless cost optimization model that will design an efficient wireless network to meet the needs of both customers and interconnecting service providers.  TMG prepared data requests to obtain the most useful inputs for the model, and conducted model runs to ensure accuracy and reconciliation of any outstanding issues.  In addition, TMG developed model documentation and conducting several training workshops on operation and maintenance of the model.

Africa and Middle East - Guidelines for Establishment of Legal Instruments and Licensing Framework
For a mobile operator with operations throughout Africa and the Middle East , TMG developed a set of guidelines that can be used when negotiating with/responding to consultations with government and regulatory authorities with respect to the establishment of legal instruments pertaining to the telecommunications industry, as well as the licensing framework.  In order to develop the guidelines, TMG identified key factors within laws, regulations and licenses, and analyzed the commercial and regulatory risks associated with each of these factors, as well as provided examples of international best practices and the associated benefits of such practices.

Africa and Middle East - Study on Compensation Mechanisms to Support Universal Service Obligations
TMG conducted a study on over 20 African and Middle Eastern countries on the compensation mechanisms to support universal service obligations currently present in each of these countries, as well as how the collected funds are administered.  The study includes a review and assessment of the universal service funding schemes being implemented in each country and the environment in which they operate, an international benchmarking study highlighting how other countries collect and distribute funds to support universal service obligations, and recommendations and guidelines to help TMG's client make the best use of the schemes in place at present, as well as the most desirable elements and overarching principles to include in a universal service fund. 

Bolivia - Analysis, Market Study and Planning
For a USTDA-sponsored project in Bolivia , Team members performed a technological assessment of both urban and rural networks in the country as part of a technical and market analysis of the Bolivian long distance telecommunications carrier, ENTEL. It provided ENTEL with a capital growth plan to meet forecasted demand, benchmarked existing operations and automation levels against international standards, and developed a strategic plan to meet improvement goals. In addition, team members worked directly with the Bolivian Ministry of Capitalization to develop a rural telecommunications development plan designed to meet the Government's sector objectives. As part of the rural telecommunications plan, Team members modified existing government objectives, performed field studies to determine the feasibility of the rural plan, and provided the technology strategy and implementation plan to accomplish systemic and economic objectives.

Cost Model for International Operator
TMG created a bottom-up engineering-economic cost model suitable for use by a major international operator in two of its locations. The model was designed to use sound engineering principles to design from the bottom-up a forward-looking wireless network, including switches, base stations, and the links that connect all of them. The general intent of the model is to use principles of engineering design to ”build” an efficient, forward-looking wireless network capable of meeting the service needs of its customers, including interconnecting service providers.

Ethiopia - Analyzing Telecommunications Opportunities and Private Investment
TMG was contracted by a large private firm in Ethiopia to identify and analyze telecommunications opportunities. TMG developed an entry plan into telecommunications ventures that included an investment in the national telecommunications operator upon privatization. TMG also worked with the company to implement a temporary cellular wireless service for use during the African Business Conference held in Addis Ababa. With TMG’s guidance, the company also contemplated investments in Internet service providers in Ethopia and neighboring countries.

Germany - Interconnection Strategies
Helped U.S. international facilities-based operator enter the market for telecommunications services in Germany through interconnection agreements with the incumbent operator. TMG also provided advice and recommendations to the client on issues related to licensing, regulatory approval, and interconnection issues within the European Union.

Global Strategic Advice
TMG is assisting a global manufacturer of wireless handsets and devices regarding relevant regulatory and market issues around the world. For this client, TMG is identifying and analyzing key issues in the telecommunications sector and providing advice on appropriate strategic responses.

Latin America - Market Analysis
TMG assisted a major U.S. private investor in analyzing the effects of recent buy-outs of various telecommunications carriers in Peru , Argentina and Brazil . Analysis included regulatory developments in the telecommunications and securities areas, as well as monitoring of current political and market events.

Latin America - Market Entry Plans
TMG has developed Latin American market entry plans for several companies. The firm worked to establish international telecommunications operating agreements, calling card operations, value-added services and other telecommunications business services for a U.S. long distance carrier. TMG also developed business plans for the introduction of a vehicle location system technology for recovery of stolen vehicles, as well as for certain advanced wireless technologies.

Latin America - Establishment of Cost-Oriented Mobile Termination Rates (MTR)
For a private sector client, TMG provided international best practices and economic support for the establishment of cost-oriented mobile termination rates (MTR) in a Latin American country. TMG conducted an international best practices study of MTR regulation, cost methodologies, glide path measures and the establishment of higher MTRs for the smallest operator of the market. TMG also provided the economic background arguments to support the operator's MTR claims.

Regulatory Review for Mobile Broadcasting Services
TMG is assisting a U.S. Fortune 500 company develop its strategy for deployment and regulatory approval of mobile broadcast services around the world. Because the technology has only recently been commercialized, TMG has been advising the company on a variety of issues, including licensing requirements, spectrum possibilities, and service definitions.

Spectrum Cap Benchmarks
For a multinational operator, TMG conducted an international benchmarking analysis of spectrum caps for broadband wireless access and mobile services. The analysis studied jurisdictions where spectrum caps were established, the bands where they were imposed, the amount of the spectrum cap, limitation of license holdings and other spectrum limitations.

Spectrum Valuation
TMG conducted a study for a private sector operator to determine the value of spectrum in the 2.5 GHz band in a Latin American country. The study consisted of a benchmark analysis of amounts paid for licenses in the 2.5 GHz band and other similar bands (2.3 GHz and 3.5 GHz) in over 15 countries. The study also utilized specific data for the country to make appropriate economic adjustments to the international compared value.

Sweden - Nordiska Tele8 Acquisition
Identified and led a team of investors to acquire a Swedish telecommunications company, Nordiska Tele8, AB (formerly Fonotel), a fully authorized telephone company approved by the Swedish Post and Telecommunications Authority.

Telecommunications Industry Opportunities Overseas
TMG has worked on various projects for USTDA, including examining USTDA's involvement in telecommunications projects throughout the world and evaluating USTDA's policies. This USTDA effort was to determine the rate of success of the projects undertaken by the agency, and to ensure success of future projects.

Uganda - Pricing Adjustment Mechanism and Benchmarking
TMG prepared a telecommunications tariff structuring recommendation, a price adjustment mechanism and a benchmarking study with proposed tariff levels for the Uganda Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (UPTC). The study was part of the telecommunications privatization and restructuring program being undertaken by the Government of Uganda.

United States - Business Plan and Operational Initiation
Developed the business plan, secured the financing, and initiated the operations of an international long distance carrier headquartered in the United States, including obtaining the necessary licenses to provide its services.

United States - Directory Assistance
Developed a business and marketing plan for an international telecommunications company interested in entering the U.S. directory assistance service market by analyzing the U.S. market, developing a plan of entry for the company, identifying potential acquisitions and partnerships, as well as by conducting a preliminary valuation analysis for potential target companies.

Uruguay - Telephone Company Privatization Effort
TMG assisted the largest Uruguayan based investment group to analyze its participation in the telecommunications company privatization. Assistance included all aspects of the investment project management, such as dealing with international companies and financial institutions, structuring agreements between local participants and with international parties, analyzing the telecommunications company's opportunities, conducting a valuation of the company, and other general advice.

REGULATORY ASSISTANCE AND SECTOR RESTRUCTURING

3G Licensing Policy
TMG assisted an Asian country in the development of a 3G licensing policy. TMG provided an overview of 3G mobile communications and international 3G licensing experiences.

Albania - Electronic Communications Law
Under an ITU-funded project, TMG provided assistance for communications sector reform in Albania , and was in charge of reviewing a draft of the Electronic Communications Law, to bring it in line with international best practices and EU Law.

Armenia - Regulatory Assistance to the Multi-sector Regulator
TMG provided assistance as a sub-contractor to BearingPoint's Commerical Law and Economic Regulation Program (CLERP) for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). As a key member of the CLERP's telecommunications team, TMG provided expertise to the multi-sector regulator in Armenia on mobile licensing and mobile tender issues, worked with CLERP on critical legal analyses of existing communications licenses and laws, and conducted cost-estimation and interconnection pricing analyses to lay the framework for future tariff formulation and interconnection pricing.

Asia-Pacific Region - Regulatory Structures for APEC TEL
Analyzed Asia-Pacific Economic Community (APEC) member economies' approaches to the regulation of the convergence of the telecommunications, broadcasting and information technology sectors for the Regulatory Structures Project of the APEC Telecommunications and Information Working Group (APEC TEL). Through two reports and workshops, TMG facilitated the dialogue among member economies seeking to establish regulatory frameworks in the face of the new challenges and opportunities that convergence presents.

Asia-Pacific Region - Leased Line Survey and Report for APEC TEL
TMG conducted a survey on the access to domestic and international leased lines in the Asia Pacific region for APEC TEL (Asia-Pacific Economic Community Telecommunications and Information Working Group). The objective of the project was to provide a comprehensive picture of the levels of access to and the use of leased lines in member economies, which will contribute to policy discussions on the issue as well as play a key role in APEC TEL's work to facilitate trade, encourage economic growth and promote the development of knowledge-based economies. The survey gathered data from member economies for the years 2001-2005 on such issues as retail and wholesale pricing, national and international connection fees, service quality, provisioning and regulatory conditions.

Benin - Drafting of Telecommunications Law
For an ITU-funded project in Benin, TMG carried out in direct liaison with the Minister and the Inter-ministerial Committee, drafting the telecommunications law and focusing on bringing the draft law in line with the ECOWAS Supplementary Acts and implementing it into national law.

Bolivia - Rural Telecommunications Development Plan
Worked directly with the Bolivian Ministry of Capitalization to develop a rural telecommunications development plan designed to meet the government's sector objectives. In addition, provided modifications to existing government objectives, performed field studies to determine the feasibility of the rural plan, and provided the technology strategy and implementation plan to accomplish systemic and economic objectives.

Brazil - Case Study on Anatel
Completed an analysis of the Brazilian regulator, Agência Nacional de Telecomunicações (Anatel), for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as one of five case studies on telecommunications regulators conducted around the world. The analysis included best practices and challenges faced by Anatel that can be used to assist other countries establishing telecommunications regulators and liberalizing their telecommunications market.

Bulgaria - Definitional Mission for USTDA
TMG conducted a follow-up Defenitional Mission for USTDA that identified numerous new opportunities for U.S. companies in Bulgaria, inlcluding wireless local loop and ATM technology expansion.

Cape Verde - Policy and Regulatory Assistance
For a World Bank-funded project, TMG provided legal and policy advisory services to the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport and to the Telecommunications Regulatory Institute for the definition and implementation of proposals for the reform of the sector. The work also focused on licensing and the introduction of competition and new technologies, in particular the Internet, as well as interconnection and tariffing issues.

Colombia - Strategic Policy Guidelines for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT)
TMG is working with the Ministry of Communications of Colombia in the development of recommendations on strategic policy guidelines for the introduction of international mobile telecommunications (IMT) technologies in Colombia .  As part of the guidelines, TMG has considered spectrum bands identified by the ITU for IMT technologies, the feasibility of allocating these bands in Colombia taking into account international best practices. The guidelines include recommendations for the introduction of IMT in Colombia , including the clearing and reallocation of spectrum and the migration of operators to other bands, including particularly the 700 MHz band currently used by television broadcasting services.

Colombia - Telecommunications Capacity Building Project
For a USTDA-funded project, TMG worked with Colombia's Ministry of Communications to enhance competition and promote the adoption of new technologies in the country's telecommunications sector.  The project focused on improving and increasing competition for domestic and international telephony services, as well as developing broadband and VoIP services.  TMG assessed the telecommunications sector's existing competition and evaluated the effectiveness of the existing licensing framework, as well as worked with both the public and private sectors to establish a new policy and regulatory framework enabling the convergence of Colombia's telecommunications, IT, and broadcasting sectors.

Republic of Congo - Legal Texts for Telecommunications and Postal Sectors
For a World Bank-funded project, TMG is assisting the government of the Republic of Congo in drafting the legal texts for the telecommunications and postal sectors, as well as the creation of the regulator. The work includes analyzing the harmonized texts of the Commission de la Communauté Economique et Monétaire de l'Afrique Centrale (CEMAC), ECOWAS texts and other international best practices, as well as drafting the law for the Congolese authorities for submission to Parliament.

Costa Rica - Technical Regulations System and Updating Tariff Regulations
Developed two studies for ARESEP, the Costa Rican telecommunications regulatory body. The first study was aimed at developing new quality of service indicators to better regulate the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), the state-owned telephone company. The second study analyzed Costa Rica's existing tariffs, compared them to other countries and developed recommendations to help Costa Rica adjust to global changes in the telecommunications environment.

East and Southern Africa - Trade in Information and Communication Services
TMG assisted several countries in Eastern Africa to integrate reforms of their information and communication sectors with their trade policy. The project focused on Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, and has three distinct but complementary components: case studies on the status of liberalization of the information and communications technology (ICT) market; trade liberalization strategy and assistance with individual country workshops, and a regional training workshop on trade in ICT services.

East and Southern Africa - Development of ICT Legislation for COMESA Member Countries
Under the European Union (EU)-funded Regional Information & Communications Technologies Support Program (RICTSP), TMG has assisted the governments of Burundi, Malawi, Rwanda, and Seychelles in drafting a comprehensive set of legislation governing the ICT sector, including provisions on Internet governance, media content and the institutional framework. The team has carried out stakeholder consultations, drafted the texts for the sector in line with international best practices and the COMESA Model ICT Bill and led a 3-day validation workshop to achieve consensus among stakeholders.

Egypt - Second Fixed License
Assisted the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (NTRA) in Egypt with the tender for the  second fixed line operator, including the request for proposals, the interconnection and access framework including the existing reference interconnection offer, and the draft license terms and conditions.

Egypt - Tariffing Study
For a USAID-funded project in Egypt, TMG conducted a tariffing study to identify legal and economic principles that support the development of a uniform tariff framework for telecommunications services. Additionally, developed model regulatory procedures to ensure competitively neutral tariffing practices by telecommunications operators and developed guidelines on the identified principles.

Ghana - Spectrum Management Issues
Advised the National Communications Agency (NCA) on spectrum efficiency management issues (including frequency use, spectrum guidelines, fees and licensing procedures and practices) to help foster development and competitiveness in Ghana's cellular market and thus maximize benefits for consumers.

Guinea Bissau - Regulatory Issues and Liberalization of Market
TMG assisted donor agencies in Guinea Bissau on various telecommunications issues, including assisting the Government to develop a strategy for implementing the liberalization called for in the recent telecommunications law, drafting a policy statement on telecommunications issued by the highest levels of Government, and preparing a tender for mobile services. TMG also assisted the Instituto de Comunicações de Guiné Bissau (ICGB) in starting its regulatory oversight of such issues as Voice over Internet Protocol, licensing, tariffing, interconnection, and universal service.

Gulf Region - Economic and Technical Strategy
TMG has assisted various private sector operators on responses to regulatory agencies in the Gulf region on economic and technical strategic issues such as long range incremental costs (LRIC) and reference interconnection offers (RIOs).

Gulf Region - Strategic Planning and Liberalization
TMG is assisting a private client in the Gulf region with strategic and regulatory issues surrounding the liberalization of the telecommunications market. TMG has provided economic and regulatory assistance regarding market dominance, licensing, spectrum management and customer contracts to the client.

Haiti - Valuation and Capitalization Analysis
Performed a management, technical and financial analysis of the Haitian telecommunications system, Telecommunications d'Haiti, for the International Finance Corporation. This analysis included an organizational and personnel study, a technological assessment, an investigation of the existing operations and automation levels and a financial review of the company. TMG conducted a cash flow valuation analysis of the company to determine the viability of privatization and to recommend privatization structures. TMG also performed a capitalization analysis of the Haitian telephone company and advised on capital projects proposed during a five-year planning period. TMG examined the five-year capitalization plan prepared by Telecomunications d'Haiti and studied each proposed project in detail. For each project, TMG determined the appropriateness of the project, priority, sizing and budget. In addition, TMG proposed changes to the company's buildout plan.

Honduras - Analysis, Restructuring and Privatization of Telecommunications Industry
As part of the government's initial privatization plan for the telecommunications company, TMG analyzed the telecommunications industry in Honduras for the Office of the President. The project included a complete study of telecommunications operations, a forecast of the growth potential, and plans for accomplishing the projected growth. TMG formulated all the plans for privatization, including restructuring the telecommunications sector (including preparation of new laws and regulations, creation of a regulatory entity, establishing new financing plans for the company, etc.) and recommendations for financing the project.

Honduras - Infrastructure Assessment
As part of a World Bank consultancy on cross-sectoral infrastructure policies to reduce poverty, TMG assessed the telecommunications sector in Honduras . TMG, partnering with three other firms, produced a comprehensive report that assessed the current infrastructure, as well as the best prospects for private participation in infrastructure development in Honduras . TMG's efforts focused on universal access and service, as well as rural telecommunications development.

Indonesia - Price Adjustment Seminar
Presented a two-week seminar on telecommunications price adjustment theory and practice to representatives from the Indonesian telephone company, PT Telekom, and the country's telecommunications regulator. The seminar covered market pricing, cost studies, price adjustment mechanisms, total productivity factors and social issues in price setting.

Indonesia - Potential Telecommunications Projects
TMG assisted USTDA to develop a list of potential projects for the telecommunications sector in Indonesia.

Jordan - Regulatory Assistance
For over six years, as part of the USAID-funded AMIR project, TMG provided institutional, regulatory, and technical support to Jordan 's Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC). TMG assisted the TRC to develop internal staffing and regulatory procedures, as well as technical assistance on issues such as interconnection, numbering, termination rates, spectrum management, issuance of a mobile license tender, universal service, competition policy and service rules, competition policy for international and domestic voice and data services, establishment of open and transparent rulemaking procedures, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Jordan - Updating Telecommunications Law
As part of a USAID-funded AMIR project, TMG worked with the Ministry of Post and Communications to update Jordan's telecommunications law, enacted in 2002. The changes to the law were made to take into consideration issues arising from convergence, as well as the establishment of an independent regulator, the TRC, and the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology.

Lebanon - Potential Telecommunications Projects
As part of a Definitional Mission for the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (TDA), TMG identified and assessed potential telecommunications projects in Lebanon and also revisited projects that were evaluated during a previous TDA multi-sectoral Definitional Mission.

Madagascar - Strengthening Legal and Regulatory Framework
In a World Bank project, TMG assisted the Government of Madagascar, particularly OMERT, the regulatory body, in strengthening the legal and regulatory framework for the telecommunications sector to take into account the new ICT development strategy prepared by the Ministry of Telecommunications, Posts and Communications, as well as the views and needs of all stakeholders, including new entrants. The project focused on regulatory treatment as a result of convergence and new technologies, including WiFi, VoIP, and the division between fixed and mobile services.

Maldives - Regulatory Support Services
TMG assisted to the Telecommunications Authority of Maldives (TAM) in establishing transparent regulatory procedures to create the appropriate legal and regulatory framework within TAM conducive to promoting competition and liberalizing the telecommunications sector. TMG provided support to TAM in the following areas: telecommunications regulations, competition policy, establishing a universal service fund, licensing, tariff regulation and pricing, spectrum management, and domain name management.

Middle East - Definition of ICT Regulation Harmonization Program
TMG is part of a Task Force that is defining an EC/ITU project on creating a harmonized framework for telecommunications legislation in the Middle East . The Task Force is working with regional regulators to define the level of harmonization, as well as the subjects for which guidelines could be established.

Mozambique - Telecommunications Sector Restructuring
Assisted the government of Mozambique in its efforts to restructure the telecommunications sector. The firm advised the regulator, the Instituto Nacional das Comunicações de Moçambique (INCM), in setting up procedures and working methods pertaining to sector reform, licensing, interconnection and universal service obligations.

Nigeria - Definitional Mission for USTDA
TMG conducted a Definitional Mission to Nigeria to identify potential telecommunications projects for future USTDA funding.

Oman - License and Regulatory Review
TMG assisted the regulator of Oman in the review of the country's existing licensing laws and regulations, in particular those pertaining to Internet policy, satellite regulation, and international gateway regulation.

Poland - Telecommunications Development and Project Opportunities
TMG evaluated regulatory and environmental factors affecting telecommunications development and identified specific telecommunications projects in Poland, specifically analyzing Tel-Energo's possible entry into a competitive market.

Romania - Definitional Mission and Telecommunications Requirements
TMG worked on two projects for USTDA in Romania, a Definitional Mission on the national railroad utility, SNCFR, telecommunications network, and an examination of rural telecommunications requirements in the country.

Senegal - Assessment of Regulatory Framework
Reviewed and assessed the legal and regulatory framework for telecommunications in Senegal and assisted the country's telecommunications regulator, the Agence de Régulation des Télécommunications (ART), in developing a strategy to regulate the telecommunications sector in an efficient and effective manner.

Slovenia - Case Study on Migration to 3G Wireless Technology
TMG developed an ITU-sponsored case study on the migration to 3G wireless technology in Slovenia. Among other topics, TMG examined the Slovenian legal and regulatory frameworks with respect to price regulation, interconnection, spectrum management, and infrastructure sharing, as well as undertook an evaluation of the Slovenian mobile market and analysis of the 3G services available.

Swaziland - Review of Telecommunications Legal Framework
For an ITU-funded project, TMG reviewed and analyzed the Swaziland Telecommunications Legal Framework. TMG examined all relevant draft legislation related to the telecommunications sector reform and the establishment of a national regulatory authority, and led stakeholder consultations on the establishment of the regulator.

Togo - Review of Legal and Regulatory Framework
TMG analyzed the telecommunications policy and regulatory framework in Togo for an ITU-funded project. As part of the project, it developed strategies for licensing, interconnection, spectrum policy, as well as universal access funding and compensation in order to adapt the legal and regulatory framework to full liberalization and convergence and to bring it in line with the ECOWAS Additional Acts.

Uganda - Analysis, Privatization Structure and Capitalization Plan for Uganda Posts and Telecommunications Corporation
As part of the government's initial privatization plan for the telecommunications company, TMG analyzed the telecommunications industry in Honduras for the Office of the President. The project included a complete study of telecommunications operations, a forecast of the growth potential, and plans for accomplishing the projected growth. TMG formulated all the plans for privatization, including restructuring the telecommunications sector (including preparation of new laws and regulations, creation of a regulatory entity, establishing new financing plans for the company, etc.) and recommendations for financing the project.

Venezuela - Orientation Visit by Venezuelan Telecommunications Officials
TMG advised USTDA prime contractor on the telecommunications market and regulatory framework for an orientation visit by Venezuelan telecommunications regulatory officials.

West Africa - Harmonization of ICT Regulation
Under an EU/ITU funded project, TMG defined the legislative framework for a harmonized approach to ICT in ECOWAS Member States, working with the 15 ECOWAS Member States and WATRA, UEMOA and ECOWAS. TMG drafted the WATRA Guidelines on ICT Policy and Licensing and the ECOWAS Supplementary Acts on ICT Policy, licensing, numbering,  spectrum management, universal service and interconnection.

West Africa - Use of Excess Communications Capacity by Power Pool
TMG is assisting the World Bank to assess policy and regulatory decisions and levers which may have an impact on the different business model scenarios for managing and operating excess fiber capacity by power companies in West Africa . TMG will be making policy and regulatory recommendations to be applied at national and regional levels to ensure open and competitive supply of excess capacity.

Workshop on New Business Models and Regulatory Implications
TMG organized a workshop on New Business Models for the World Bank covering the following topics: the impact of Internet Protocol (IP), triple play, broadband services over different platforms (e.g., fixed wireless, cable television, power lines, mobile, fixed telephony), new business models emerging from technological change, opportunities for incumbent operators, and the impact of new technology on regulation.

TRAINING AND REPORTS ON REGULATORY REFORM AND CONVERGENCE

Module on Legal and Institutional Aspects of Regulation for ICT Regulation Toolkit
TMG was selected by the World Bank and the ITU to prepare a study, online module, and training materials regarding the Legal and Institutional Aspects of Regulation that forms part of the ICT Regulation Toolkit developed by info Dev and the ITU.  The Legal and Institutional Aspects of Regulation module prepared by TMG addresses the importance of an appropriate legal, regulatory, and institutional framework for effective regulation and provides regulators, policy makers, and stakeholders with best practice guidelines, examples, and practical approaches to ICT regulation.  The module, comprised of over 400 pages of text, as well as an extensive list of practice notes and reference materials, focuses on three main aspects of regulation: (i) general legal context of regulation; (ii) institutional and organizational aspects of regulation; and (iii) regulatory process. The module was presented at the ITU's Global Symposium for Regulators (2005) in Tunisia and the ITU's World Telecommunication Development Conference (2006) in Qatar . See www.icttoolkit.infodev.org .

Training Workshops on Legal and Institutional Aspects of Regulation for ICT Regulation Toolkit
TMG conducted two training workshops as part of the Legal and Institutional Aspect of Regulation project, focusing on the enabling environment necessary to address convergence. The first was a European Regional Seminar - Telecommunication Liberalization Challenges and Opportunities for the CEE, CIS and Baltic States, held in Moldova from 20-22 June 2006. In addition, TMG conducted a workshop held in 2006, entitled “New Technologies, New Thinking: ICT Regulation in a Changing World” -- Executive-level Training for Regulators and Policy-Makers, which included close to 40 heads of regulatory authorities from different regions, and addressed regulatory reforms related to convergence, such as licensing, numbering, spectrum, universal service, and institutional restructuring.

Training Workshop on Competition and Changing Telecommunications Market Conditions
TMG conducted training of a group of over 40 African regulations as part of a World Bank and COMESA program on “Training on Competition and Changing Market Conditions: Impact on ICT Regulation,” held in November 2007 in Addis Ababa , Ethiopia . The seminar included such topics as competition policy fundamentals, how competition law principles influence regulation, and jurisdictional boundaries and roles of competition authorities and telecommunications regulators.

Training Seminar on Regulatory and Institutional Issues Faced by Newly-Established Regulators
TMG participated as telecommunications regulation and policy expert at the 14th ITU Subregional Meeting for Cambodia , Laos , PDR, Myanmar and Vietnam and the ITU Regional Seminar on Establishing New Regulators held in Vientiane , Laos PDR in October 2007. Training materials, lecture notes, relevant case studies, existing models and best practices were prepared on convergence and regulatory and institutional issues faced by newly established telecommunication regulators, including general regulatory principles, regulatory models, processes and procedures, and organizational transition issues.

Spectrum Management Training Seminar
TMG conducted a series of seminars on Spectrum Management and Frequency Monitoring for the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority in Cairo , Egypt . The seminars focused on how to optimize wireless telecommunications services and spectrum use. The objective was to familiarize the NTRA personnel with the wide range of policy, regulatory, and licensing issues involved in developing and maintaining a sound spectrum management program. The details involved in developing national allocation principles were addressed and the need to reflect them in the national frequency allocation table and in the licensing of systems was stressed. Both commercial and government (military, public safety) uses of spectrum were described. In addition, methods to resolve competing commercial and government demands for access to spectrum were discussed with examples derived from both the United States and within the European Union.

Workshop on New Business Models and Regulatory Implications
TMG organized a workshop on New Business Models for the World Bank covering the following topics: the impact of Internet Protocol (IP), triple play, broadband services over different platforms (e.g., fixed wireless, cable television, power lines, mobile, fixed telephony), new business models emerging from technological change, opportunities for incumbent operators, and the impact of new technology on regulation.

Capacity Building in ICT Regulation in West Africa
TMG provided assistance in defining capacity building needs and training to regulators form the 15 ECOWAS countries in both English and French on licensing, universal service, and effective regulation.

Strengthening ICT Management Graduate Program for the National Telecommunications Institute in Egypt
TMG worked with Egypt 's National Telecommunications Institute (NTI) in its efforts to strengthen the institute's ICT Management graduate program.  TMG advised NTI on course options to include on its telecommunications regulation module, as well on the development of an online distance learning course on telecommunications policies and regulation.

FCC Training Program for Telecommunications Regulators
Assisted the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in developing a web-based U.S. AID-supported program to provide training assistance to telecommunications regulators worldwide on numerous policy and regulatory matters, including convergence, licensing, spectrum management and the establishment of an independent regulator.

India - White Paper and Presentations on Key Regulatory Issues in an Era of Convergence
This White Paper examines the challenges facing regulators and policymakers as technological convergence blurs the traditional boundaries between telecommunications, data services, and television broadcasting. It surveys regulatory approaches to convergence, including how it affects licensing regimes and regulatory issues, such as interconnection, numbering, consumer protection and information, universal service, and spectrum management. The White Paper, which was presented at the Confederation of Indian Industry's National Seminar on Regulatory Issues in the Age of Convergence in New Delhi, India (June 2006), suggests policy changes to better allow regulators and policymakers to adapt their regulatory frameworks to this new era.

Mobile Number Portability Around the World
This report, published by TMG in October 2008, identifies and provides data from each of the countries that have implemented mobile number portability (MNP), including the number of portings and porting penetration.  The report uses the data to provide an overview of porting trends since the introduction of MNP and outlines key issues related to MNP.  The report also examines the advantages and disadvantages of MNP, explores the status of MNP around the world and measures the impact of MNP.  In addition, the report features statistical tables with relevant data for analyzing MNP such as mobile subscribers and penetration, churn and the number of portings.

IPTV: The Killer Broadband Application
Forecasting that there will be nearly 60 million Internet Protocol television (IPTV) subscribers worldwide by the end of 2010, this TMG report published in April 2008 is a rich resource for operators, manufacturers, regulators, policymakers, researchers and others. In addition to annual historical data and a 2010 subscriber forecast for more than 40 countries that had IPTV at the beginning of 2008, the report includes penetration rates for television households, pay television households, broadband subscribers and broadband households. The report also contains a listing of IPTV providers and pricing around the world.

ITU Trends Reports
TMG has developed various chapters for the annual ITU Trends Report and has presented the chapters at the ITU's Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR). The specific chapters have been on:

- IPTV and Mobile TV: New Regulatory Challenges for Regulators for the 2008 Report;

- Enabling Environment for Next Generation Network (NGN) Deployment for the 2007 Report;

- Transitioning Licensing and Regulation from Old to New for the 2004 Report.

A Primer on Mobile Termination Rates
TMG published a report that provides an overview of mobile termination rates (MTRs, the cost per minute of terminating a call on a mobile network), explaining differences between charging regimes, providing examples of penetration rates and usage patterns under the two systems, as well as examining asymmetric MTRs. The report also includes regional benchmarks for 2005 and a summary table of mobile market indicators including penetration, retail pricing, competition index, minutes of use, and average revenue per user for 40 major economies.

Asia Pacific Mobile Multimedia Outlook 2004
Published the Asia Pacific Mobile Multimedia Outlook, which was launched at ITU Telecom Asia in Korea. This market analysis report provides a comprehensive overview of mobile data developments in 13 countries (Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand) in the Asia Pacific region, covering such aspects as high-speed network launches, pricing, text messaging and other factors impacting mobile Internet take-up.  

Superstars of the Mobile Internet - Top 10 Mobile Multimedia Nations
TMG published a report identifying the leading nations in mobile multimedia. Superstars of the Mobile Internet provides the statistical basis to show the leading countries in using mobile handsets to download entertainment, exchange picture messages, and access the Internet.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS

Andean Region/South America - 3G (IMT-2000) Strategy
Conducted a detailed analysis of the potential for the harmonized implementation of 3G mobile services in ASETA (Asociación de Empresas de Telecomunicaciones de la Comunidad Andina) member countries. Analyzed existing national spectrum allocation plans and mobile deployments in the five member countries to develop alternatives and recommendations for a regional approach to 3G.

Bahrain - Mobile Tender
TMG worked with the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of the Kingdom of Bahrain to design and manage the tender process to award a third mobile license. As part of the project, it supplied expert advice regarding the successful entry of a new mobile operator starting with the prequalification and ending with writing the evaluation committee report. The tender process far exceeded the TRA’s expectations and concluded in January 2009 with a winning bid of US$230 million.

Egypt - Mobile Tender
Provided assistance to the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) of Egypt to develop the mobile tender to award a third mobile license. Provided a framework and guidelines for bid pre-qualification and evaluation procedures, and introduced international best practices in the mobile license bid process. The successful results of the tender significantly exceeded market expectations.

Equatorial Guinea - Earth Station and Cellular System
Prepared a network design and implementation plan for an international telecommunications services earth station and cellular telephone network for deployment in Equatorial Guinea. TMG also proposed a basic design to modernize and expand the rural telecommunications network. The project included preparation of a technical design and proposal in English and Spanish, initial network designs, project pricing and budgeting, regulatory and licensing aspects, and business case development with market analysis, pricing proposals, revenue projections, and profitability estimates.

Guinea Bissau - Third Mobile License
TMG, acting as international advisor to the Government of Guinea Bissau, assisted the Guinea Bissau Communications Institute (ICGB) in organizing a mobile tender for the successful issuance of a third nationwide public mobile license in Guinea Bissau.  As part of the process, TMG drafted the tender documents including the bid submission, the investment considerations, the model license and the evaluation criteria and guidelines for the establishment and operation of a third mobile operator.

India - VSAT Communications Network
Conducted a technical analysis of the current status, the development plans and the implementation requirements involved in the installation of a VSAT network for the Reserve Bank of India and the Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technologies. Also identified areas of potential World Bank participation to fund development of a VSAT network to support a payment system improvement initiative for the Reserve Bank of India.

Jordan - Mobile Services Competition
TMG provided assistance to the TRC, the regulator of Jordan, in the development of mobile competition policy and the award of the third license in the mobile sector.  Specifically, TMG introduced international best practices in mobile license bid issuance and evaluation procedures; provided capacity building in bid development, pre-qualification and evaluation; introduced the concept of holding bidders' conferences/workshops; developed bidding conditions that attracted investors interested in a third license in a small and challenging market; obtained approval of overall mobile licensing program from Council of Ministers;  and provided on-site assistance and mentoring for bid evaluation process.

Korea - Wireless Consortium Development and Bid Structure
For a large Korean company, TMG assisted in developing an international consortium to bid on PCS licenses and to provide expert assistance in developing the group's submission to the Korean Government. In the course of this project, TMG located the Korean company's eventual operating partner and negotiated the initial partnering agreements. Additionally, TMG identified and helped develop a series of international wireless investment opportunities for the company's participation in both the operating and manufacturing sectors.

Maldives - Mobile Tender and Liberalization of the Mobile Services Market
TMG assisted the Ministry of Communication, Science and Technology (MCST) of the Maldives in its efforts to liberalize the mobile services market through the issuance of a tender for a second mobile operator that will provide the Maldivian population with wider accessibility and more affordable services. In an effort to evaluate the Maldives’ potential market for an additional mobile service operator, TMG conducted a market survey and research to identify the scope of the country’s mobile service market. TMG also worked with the MCST to develop the framework necessary to bring about openness and transparency in the country’s telecommunications sector to encourage investment and competition.

Morocco - Third Generation Licensing
TMG staff members were part of the team which carried out a study in 2005 for the Moroccan regulator, ANRT, regarding third generation mobile licensing.  TMG provided analysis and recommendations on spectrum and licensing issues.

Panama - Cellular Consulting
Analyzed the cellular mobile telecommunications business in Panama for the Office of the Comptroller of Panama and prepared the strategy for opening the country to license bids and network implementation. For the study, TMG performed a valuation of the opportunity that included projected income statements. TMG also recommended a strategic partnership alliance with select international parties.

Participation and Leadership in the ITU-R
Senior telecommunications experts at TMG actively participate and have held management positions in the ITU-R Study Groups (SG), Working Parties (WP) and Joint Task Groups (JTG) on a variety of issues, including mobile telecommunications in Study Group 5, including Working Party (WP) 5A (Land mobile excluding IMT), WP 5D (IMT or 3G/4G systems), WP 5C (Fixed wireless systems; HF systems in the Fixed and Land Mobile Services), as well as WP 6D (Broadcast delivery), WP 6X (Access to broadcasting services including multimedia broadcasting), JTG 5-6 (Studies on the use of the band 790-862 MHz by the mobile services), WP 3K (Point to area propagation), WP 3L (Ionospheric propagation and radio noise), and WP 3M (Point-to-point and Earth-space propagation). In addition, TMG staff members have participated in World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC) for the past 30 years, and held leadership positions in the most recent Conference Preparatory Meeting (CPM) and WRC-07.

Spectrum Seminars
TMG developed and participated in 3G regulatory and policy seminars in various countries, including India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam to provide expert guidance and information regarding appropriate frameworks for deploying advanced mobile wirelss services. The seminars provided numerous recommendations and identified issues that governments should address in the development of advanced wireless policies.

Tunisia - 3G Mobile Licensing
TMG is part of a Team currently carrying out a study of Tunisia's mobile telecommunications market in order to develop the 3G licensing framework. The project includes an international 3G benchmarking exercise, a market study regarding 3G market potential in the country and the development of the necessary legal and regulatory framework for the award and allocation of 3G licenses.

Third Generation Wireless
TMG is currently involved in the development of third generation wireless strategies for a U.S. manufacturer and innovator of Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and wireless local loop technology. TMG works with regional and international telecommunications organizations responsible for spectrum identification and standards development for next generation wireless systems.

United States - PCS Business Planning and Frequency Auction Preparation
TMG prepared the business plan and offering memorandum for a company to participate in the FCC's C Band auction for Personal Communications Services (PCS) licenses. TMG developed the supporting market assessment, the pro-forma business case and the bidding strategy and identified the target market and the financial lead for the consortium.

Uruguay - Cellular Telephony and Investment Analysis
TMG assisted the investors in a cellular network in Uruguay to determine the investment value of its operations, including commercial, development, engineering, capital, and macro-economic factors that could affect the company. TMG also participated in a U.S. consortium formed by the client to bid for the cellular license. Consortium members included one of the largest cellular network operators in the United States, as well as a Uruguayan investment group. The bid included a detailed study and analysis of the existing cellular capabilities in Uruguay, as well as the design and engineering of a parallel network for expanded coverage, greater penetration, modernization, and improvement of service.

Wireless Standards Development
TMG is currently participating in the IEEE working groups developing Broadband Wireless Access (802.16, also known as WiMAX) and Mobile Broadband Wireless Access (802.20) standards.  TMG participates in the decisions made by these working groups as they develop and update their standards, and also monitors the strategies of the various corporate stakeholders in each group.  TMG evaluates these working groups' emerging standards and potential applications with respect to each other and to existing wireless communications solutions.