Examining the nature of telecommunication networks and the rationale for the developement of trans-European networks, the study explores the features networks need to exhibit if they are to complement the broad themes of Europe's industrial policy, and demonstrates the economic importance of advanced telecommunications to business. The final chapters of the volume offer an analysis of the technology associated with the three chosen priorities of the EU in the development of advanced telecommunication infrastructure: * the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) * the development of telematic networks * the development of broadband networks.

The provision of advanced telecommunication networks is increasingly pivotal in determining an economy's perfomance. This study examines the importance of these networks within the EU and questions their role in promoting economic regeneration and renewal in Europe. Examining the nature of telecommunication networks and the rationale for the development of trans-European networks, the study explores the features networks need to exhibit if they are to complement the broad themes of Europe's industrial policy, and demonstrated the economic importance of advanced telecommunications to business. The final chapters of the volume offer an analysis of the technology associated with the three chosen priorities of the EU in the development of advanced telecommunication infrastructure: the Integrated Digital Network (ISDN); and the development of telematic network; the development of broadband networks.

Trans-European networks (TENs) are a key theme in the process of integration for the EU as it enters the next millennium. The attainment of these networks stretches across many different areas of European policy and economy. The development of TENs is about establishing a series of infrastructure networks that complement the broad changes in the European economy facilitated by the development of the Single European Market. The book examines the development of TENs in the three key sectors: transport, energy and telecommunications, noting key themes and issues that need to be faced in their attainment. Attention is also paid to common problems in their realisation most notably the financing problems. The EU's strategy to develop these networks is essentially market-led yet, as the financing issues indicate, a consensus between the states in allowing commercial investment in infrastructure is proving elusive.

The book presents an updated dialogue between researchers and analysts on policy-relevant telecommunication issues and public and private sector decision makers engaged in making telecommunication policy. It focuses on the two major issues of sectoral convergence - looking at the new challenges to regulation in Europe and at company strategies for alliance and competition at the national and global level - and competition - discussing interconnection of both local/long distance, incumbent/new entrant, and universal service definition in a liberalised framework as well as the new dynamics between network and service competition with special concern on the role played by national telecom operators. Each theme concerns both corporate strategy in the international environment and public policy responses to shifting realities.

Through an integrative framework developed by the authors and drawn from international political economy and corporate strategy literature, this book examines the interface between public policy and corporate strategy in network development within the context of the European Union's trans-European network (TENs) initiative.

TEN-Telecom is the Community action for trans-European telecommunications networks, an important part of the EU initiatives supporting the growth of the Information Society. By stimulating investment in the launch of new multimedia applications and generic services based on telecommunication networks in areas of public interest, TEN-Telecom aims at sustaining the efforts of private and public sectors to broaden the markets and create the conditions for better access to and use of information.

Europe is undergoing fundamental change as barriers and borders are broken down, as new technologies are introduced, and as the European Union expands. This study provides an overview of the present state of affairs. It has been written for a non-technical market and covers spatial, economic, telecommunications and political issues. The theoretical material is illustrated with individual case studies from a variety of European countries.

Part I together with Part II launch the process of formulation of the European Union policy on infrastructure. Part II launches a broad discussion with all interested parties of the major issues involved in the future regulation of network infrastructure. This will allow the development of a common approach to infrastructure provision in the European Union. Covers: the major drivers for change; universal service; employment, societal & cultural issues; & much more. Charts & tables.