GSM Association Gets a Revamp

The trade association that represents the GSM network operators, the GSM Association is setting up a board room level chain of communication, and is planning to replace its existing structure. The Association said that the formation of the high-level Board is driven by the need to accelerate and prioritise the agreement and introduction of common global platforms.

The 21-member CEO board will include Board-level representatives of twelve of the world's largest wireless operators by subscriber numbers. Major global operator groups such as Vodafone, Orange, T-Mobile, NTT DoCoMo, China Mobile, Singtel Optus, Cingular Wireless, TIM, Telefonica, Sonera and AT&T Wireless were among the CEO Advisory Group that devised the proposed changes.

The announcement came after the presentation of the restructuring plan at the GSM Association's Plenary meeting in Istanbul, hosted by Turkish network operator, Telsim.

In a historic vote, more than 90% of the Association's Members -- representing more than 530 network operators and 750 million users in some 180 countries -- supported the proposal to make fundamental changes to the global Association's governance and decision-making processes. The changes come into effect from January 1, 2003.

GSM Association Chairman, Jim Pratt representing Singtel Optus said: "This is a milestone in the maturity of our industry and the Association. It signals a new era of co-operation, understanding and communication as we respond to one of the most challenging business climates of all times.

"We can now address these issues swiftly and with authority and I thank the Association's entire Membership for their vision and for their endorsement of the proposed changes," he added.'"

Posted to the site on 17th October 2002