Publications Overview | Technology & Telecom Reports | Technology Forecasting Guides | Futures' Features | White Papers, Articles, & Complimentary Reports  | Communications Reference Book | Archive [ordering online? -- please see our return/refund policy] Futures' Features is TFI's free e-letter informing clients and contacts of new TFI forecasting and telecom reports, white papers, complimentary articles, special offers for our readers, and more. Below are several recent issues of Futures' Features. To subscribe to Futures' Features, please click here. January 2008 | November 2007 | January 2007 | December 19, 2006 | December 6, 2006 | September 2006 | April 2006 | Archive Futures' Features: Top Tech Trends 2008/Feb Seminars/Feb Conference/More January 10, 2008 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. (See bottom of e-mail for opt-out option.) In this issue, for the fourth year running, we provide our popular list of forward-looking trends for the coming year that will have significant impact on companies that use technology for competitive advantage. Our third annual seminars/conference series is also coming up February 6-8 in Downtown Austin, Texas. These sessions are beneficial for staying on the cutting edge of where technology is heading in your field. An upcoming speaker engagement and a recent TFI for-sale report and complimentary report are also in the lineup. (1) Top 19 Technology Trends for 2008 ~~For the 4th year running, TFI Provides List of Top Technology Trends!~~ (2) TFI's 3rd Annual Seminars/Conference Series: ~~Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, Wednesday, February 6, Austin, Texas~~ ~~Broadband Futures Seminar, Thursday, February 7, Austin, Texas~~ ~~Technology Futures Asset Valuation Conference, Friday, February 8, Austin, Texas~~ Series Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI). Also featuring: John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (Chairman, TFI), David Smith (Vice President, TFI), Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI), and other guest presenters/panelists. Series Location: Courtyard Marriott Downtown, Austin, Texas Price: $495 each day, $945 two days, or $1,250 all three days More Info: See links, details below, or contact us at info@tfi.com, (512) 258-8898, or (800) 835-3887. (3) "The Future of Technology, Software, and Business Process--A Horizontal Convergence?" ~~David Smith, Speaker, Innotech Conference & Expo, San Antonio, Texas, March 6, 2008~~ (4) Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers ~~TFI Telecom Report with Key Findings and Featured Graph~~ (5) Mechatronics, A Technology Forecast ~~Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on "intelligent mechanical systems" now available~~ (6) More ~~Coming soon: TFI Telecom Report: Forecasts for Local Exchange Switching Equipment~~ ~~Coming soon: Complimentary TFI Analyst Paper: A New Telecommunications World~~ ~~Foresight Magazine Subscription Discount~~ ======================= (1) Top 19 Technology Trends for 2008 ~~For the 4th year running, TFI Provides List of Top Technology Trends!~~ Commenting on the list, author David Smith (Vice President, TFI) states, “2005 and 2006 were periods spent building capacity and capabilities. 2007 and 2008 are years of transition. We saw tipping points in 2007 in several technology areas, such as broadband penetration and the death of single core processing chips.” He continues, "2008 will be a dynamic year impacted by possible actions such as the potential financial instability including the threat of recession, changes in the geopolitical environment, and further changes to the landscape of business." The list below provides more information on these trends and others that will be of great consequence to those involved with global business, technology business process, science and universities, government agencies, federal labs, corporate labs, and technology savvy consumers. An expanded description of each trend is available at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2008-trends.html. (These predictions differ from our normal activities where TFI traditionally looks further out into the future.) Top 19 Technology Trends for 2008 1. Green, Green, Green—during 2008, everything turns green. 2. Peer-to-peer (P2P) rebrands itself and becomes an ad-supported connection between consumers, business, and content producers. 3. The IT industry’s key players dramatically increase the migration of core offerings. 4. The fabric of the enterprise computing and data center begins to change considerably. 5. Flash memory hits the mainstream in a big way. 6. Voice no longer drives communications. 7. Significant growth driven by Wi-Fi is apparent across communications hardware providers and carriers. 8. A new paradigm arrives in the wireless markets. 9. WiMAX continues its consolidation and makes many changes during the year. 10. Internet video of all types increases. 11. Digital convergence enters a new stage of growth, finally beginning to exploit the benefits of horizontal digital convergence. 12. Advertising revenue increases as new applications emerge and as tens of millions of users use immersive worlds and play massively multiplayer online games. 13. Outsourcing transitions to smart sourcing. 14. The corporateand government business models move toward ones more dominated by Reed’s law of self-forming groups. 15. Global warming and the energy crisis continue to have major impacts. 16. Global stability continues to become even more high risk. 17. The worldwide economy will be volatile during the next few years. 18. The age of bio continues to grow in importance. 19. Social applications come into prominence built around the growth of pervasive communications and computing. (See http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2008-trends.html for an expanded description of each trend.) For more information on TFI's work on trends, please contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. __________________________ (2) TFI's 3rd Annual Seminars/Conference Series: ~~Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, Wednesday, February 6, Austin, Texas~~ ~~Broadband Futures Seminar, Thursday, February 7, Austin, Texas~~ ~~Technology Futures Asset Valuation Conference, Friday, February 8, Austin, Texas~~ Trends in technology, broadband, and telecommunications are changing the industry at a dramatic rate. Organizations are looking for insight into where the future is going and how to best get there. These sessions provide resources that will help craft innovative, future-proof strategies that fit individual organizations: (2a) Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html Wednesday, February 6, 2008, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Austin, Texas. This seminar provides an overview of the philosophy and methods behind Technology Futures' Five Views of the Future Strategic Analysis Framework for planning and forecasting. This framework allows the consideration of both tangibles and intangibles, and has resulted in accurate forecasts by TFI during the past 29 years in fields such as communications, information technology, and consumer electronics. Seminar Leader:Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. President, TFI, Presenters:: John H. Vanston, Ph.D., Chairman, TFI and David Smith, Vice President, TFI Price: $495 each day, $945 two days, or $1,250 all three days. (2b) Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html February 7, 2008, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Austin, Texas Broadband is now generally recognized as the key to success in the communications industry. It has become top priority for carriers, suppliers, users, and potential new players. This seminar provides a comprehensive review of broadband trends and their driving forces, and provides TFI's latest forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications including VoIP, IP video, and wireless broadband. Seminar Leader:Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. President, TFI, Presenters:: David Smith, Vice President, TFI and Kermit Ross, Founder/Principal, Millennium Marketing Price: $495 each day, $945 two days, or $1,250 all three days. (2c) Technology Futures Asset Valuation Conference, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html February 8, 2008, 8:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m., Austin, Texas The necessity to provide very-high-speed broadband will cause the obsolescence and ultimate replacement of much of the existing communications equipment in the traditional telephone, wireless, and cable television networks. This conference will focus on how to quantify the impact of technology change on the value of communications assets. It will also address important current issues in three featured sessions with guest panelists. Conference Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) Presenter: Ray L. Hodges, Senior Consultant, TFI Guest Panelists: Pam Willmoth, Corporate Tax Department, AT&T Mobility; Carl Hoemke, Managing Director, Duff & Phelps; Jeffery Binkley, Managing Director, Thomson Property Tax Services; Mark Semerad, Manager, Property Tax, Level 3 Communications; Christopher Zamora, Director, Thomson Property Tax Services; Mark Schichtel, Time Warner Cable; and other guest panelists to be announced Price: $495 each day, $945 two days, or $1,250 all three days. Location: Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 300 E. 4th Street., Austin, TX 78701, (512) 236-8008 or (800) 321-2211.The hotel is within walking distance of Austin's famous 6th Street and near the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and other popular Austin sites. The hotel is presently sold out of group rate rooms, and full-rate rooms are very limited. Other hotels in the area are filling up rapidly—particularly those with lower priced rooms. (One economical alternative, Extended Stay America, is several blocks away and presently has some rooms available (512) 457-9994.) Contact us if you need other hotel recommendations. We suggest you book your hotel rooms immediately! For more information, please see links above or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________ (3) "The Future of Technology, Software, and Business Process--A Horizontal Convergence?" ~~David Smith, Speaker, Innotech Conference & Expo, San Antonio, Texas, March 6, 2008~~ InnoTech creates an environment where education, innovation, peer-to-peer networking and the latest technology and business solutions are all available specifically for IT professionals. David Smith (TFI Vice President) will kick off the conference with a presentation on "The Future of Technology, Software, and Business Process--A Horizontal Convergence?" at the Norris Conference Center at 9:00 a.m. on March 6. David presented this talk to a standing-room only crowd at the October 2007 Austin Innotech Conference. He has been invited back with a promise of a larger room! For more information on booking David's presentations, please see Speakers Page. _______________________ (4) Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers ~~TFI Telecom Report with Key Findings and Featured Graph~~ TFI forecasts continued increases in broadband speeds, hastening the obsolescence of broadband investment. This report, by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), provides recommendations for depreciation lives for broadband equipment such as video set-top boxes, headend equipment, and broadband loop electronics, including DSLAMs, DSL modems, and BPON equipment. Featured Graph and Key Findings: The required data rate for broadband is increasing rapidly, causing rapid obsolescence of broadband equipment. By 2010, about 75% of U.S. households will have broadband service, and over 15% of households will subscribe to very high-speed broadband (at least 24 Mb/s). See Featured Graph: Broadband Households by Nominal Date Rate. New video services such as IP video, Internet television, and HDTV are rapidly being adopted and improved. This will cause significant obsolescence of broadband equipment. The broadband, voice, and video networks are moving toward the IP paradigm, meaning less expensive equipment, rapid obsolescence, and marked volatility in applications, services, and network requirements. In each of the broadband architectures currently being deployed, significant amounts of active electronics are exposed to the elements (either on the side of a house or at a remote node) or to household activity. This will reduce depreciation lives. The research was sponsored by the Telecommunication Technology Forecasting Group, a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, Qwest, and Verizon. For more information and purchasing details, please see Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers. For more information on TFI's work in the telecom area, please see Telecom Services or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. __________________________ (5) Mechatronics, A Technology Forecast ~~Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on "intelligent mechanical systems" now available~~ Mechatronics is another way of saying "intelligent mechanical systems," and it is the foundation of many 21st century enabling technologies. This publication, co-authored by TFI staff, includes an overview of mechatronics technology, analysis of related occupations and salaries, and lists of industry experts and mechatronics companies. The report was sponsored by Texas State Technical College. For more information on TFI's work in this area, please see Services to Universities and Colleges or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. __________________________ (6) More (6a)~~Coming soon: TFI Telecom Report: Forecasts for Local Exchange Switching Equipment~~ TFI's new publication, Forecasts for Local Exchange Switching Equipment, will be available for purchase soon. Written by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. and Ray L. Hodges, the report is sponsored by the Telecommunications Technology Forecasting Group (TTFG), a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, Qwest, and Verizon. For pre-ordering information, please contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. (6b)~~Coming soon: Complimentary TFI Analyst Paper: A New Telecommunications World~~ TFI's new analyst paper, A New Telecommunications World, by Lawrence Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), will be available at no charge to our readers soon. The telephone network was built to provide narrowband voice service to essentially every home and office. That world is disappearing. The reasons are many including convergence, competition, broadband, increasing data rates, wireless, and others. This complimentary paper covers these and gives forecasts of the probable telecom future. (6c)~~Foresight Magazine Subscription Discount~~ Foresight: The International Journal of Applied Forecasting, an official publication of the International Institute of Forecasters, seeks to advance the practice of forecasting by publishing high-quality, peer-reviewed articles, written in a concise, accessible style for forecasting analysts, managers, and students. To save $20 off the regular subscription fee of $95, please visit http://forecasters.org/pdfs/Foresight-subscription-special.pdf. _______________________________________________ Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI: We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page. _______________________________________________ TFI Keynote & Event Speakers: We've had a very busy year for speaking engagements on technology convergence, telecom trends, and other subjects. For more information about TFI presentations and presentors, please visit our Speakers Page or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For 29 years, Technology Futures has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasti"ng, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high-technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. _______________________ TFI's e-mail list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please e-mail info@tfi.com or call (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898.. Copyright (c) 2008, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- -- back to top Futures' Features: Feb Seminars/Feb Conference/Reports on Telecom & Mechatronics & HTI November 2007 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. (See bottom of e-mail for opt-out option.) It's been awhile since we've put out a Futures' Features, but not because we haven't been busy! We hope you like our new look and find this issue interesting and useful. We have the major offerings listed first, with further details below. (1) Our popular one-day seminars and third annual tax conference are back: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar: Wednesday, February 6, 2008, Austin, Texas. Register now! Broadband Futures Seminar: Thursday, February 7, 2008, Austin, Texas. Register now! Technology Futures Asset Valuation Conference: Friday, February 8, 2008, Austin, Texas. Register now! Seminars/Conference Leader: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI). Also featuring: John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (Chairman, TFI), David Smith (Vice President, TFI), Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI), and invited panelists to be announced. The fee is $495 each day, $945 for two days, or $1,250 for all three days. All the sessions will be held at the Courtyard Marriott Downtown, Austin, Texas. Please note hotel block is limited, so make reservations soon! More information available at links and below. (2) New TFI telecom report now available, with Featured Graph and Sampling of Key Findings: Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers: Featured Graph, Key Findings, and purchasing details at links or below. (3) Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on "intelligent mechanical systems" now available: Mechatronics, A Technology Forecast (4) Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on an expanding technology now available: Home Technology Integration, A Technology Forecast _______________________________________________ (1) Our popular one-day seminars and third annual tax conference are back: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar: Wednesday, February 6, 2008, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Austin, Texas. Overview: This seminar provides a general introduction to the philosophy and methods behind TFI's forecasts in fields such as communications, information technology, and consumer electronics. Representative quantitative and qualitative tools are covered, with an emphasis on practical understanding and practical examples, rather than on theory. Strategic and planning implications of forecasting models will also be stressed. Practical exercises are included to enhance learning. What you will gain: A toolbox of practical, proven forecasting techniques. The ability to project how rapidly new technologies will be adopted in the marketplace. The means to identify and evaluate emerging market needs. The ability to determine the rate of obsolescence for existing technologies. Interaction with other professionals involved in technology/market forecasting. Seminar Leader: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) Also featuring: John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (Chairman, TFI) David Smith (Vice President, TFI) Price: $495, $945 for two days, or $1,250 for all three days. Register now! Location/Accommodations: Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 300 E. 4th Street., Austin, TX, (512) 236-8008 or (800) 321-2211, The hotel is within walking distance to Austin's famous 6th Street and near the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and other popular Austin sites. We have a limited $169/night block of rooms until January 16, 2008. See Hotel Information for more details. More information: Please see links above or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ Broadband Futures Seminar: Thursday, February 7, 2008, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Austin, Texas. Overview: Broadband is now generally recognized as the key to success in the communications industry. It is the focus of the convergence of voice, video, data, and the Internet that is driving the competitive futurescape of the industry. The evolving role of wireless broadband is another key thread in the story. This seminar provides a comprehensive review of these trends and their driving forces, and provides TFI's latest forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications including VoIP, IP video, and wireless broadband. Seminar Topics: Broadband Adoption Forecasts. Forecasts for Increased Bandwidth. IP Video Forecasts: IPTV, Internet Television, HD IP Video. Farewell POTS: VoIP, Instant Messaging, and Integrated Applications. Wireless Broadband: Competitor or Complement? Multiple Aspects of Digital Convergence. Comparison of Fiber-Based Access Alternatives. Seminar Leader: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) Also featuring: David Smith (Vice President, TFI) Price: $495, $945 for two days, or $1,250 for all three days. Register now! Location/Accommodations: Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 300 E. 4th Street., Austin, TX, (512) 236-8008 or (800) 321-2211, The hotel is within walking distance to Austin's famous 6th Street and near the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and other popular Austin sites. We have a limited $169/night block of rooms until January 16, 2008. See Hotel Information for more details. More information: Please see links above or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ Technology Futures Asset Valuation Conference: Friday, February 8, 2008, 8:30 a.m.–3:45 p.m., Austin, Texas. Overview: The necessity to provide very-high-speed broadband will cause the obsolescence and ultimate replacement of much of the existing communications equipment in the traditional telephone, wireless, and cable television networks. This conference will focus on how to quantify the impact of technology change on the value of communications assets. It will also address important current issues in three featured sessions. Preliminary Schedule: Basic Session: Overview of TFI Forecasts and Life Estimates for Network Technology: Cable, Circuit and Switching; Wireless and Wireline; Broadband and Narrowband. New TFI Research: Obsolescence in the Local Transport Network. New TFI Research: New TFI Recommendations for ILEC Fiber Optics Lives. Methods Session: Issues in Using Technology Forecasting for Depreciation/Valuation. Featured Session: Obsolescence in Long-Distance and Local Transport Networks. Featured Session: Impacts of Technology Change on Wireless and Wireless Broadband Assets. Featured Session: Impacts of Convergence on Asset Valuation. Closing Remarks Seminar Leader: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) Also featuring: Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI) Invited Panelists Price: $495, $945 for two days, or $1,250 for all three days. Register now! Location/Accommodations: Courtyard Marriott Downtown, 300 E. 4th Street., Austin, TX, (512) 236-8008 or (800) 321-2211, The hotel is within walking distance to Austin's famous 6th Street and near the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and other popular Austin sites. We have a limited $169/night block of rooms until January 16, 2008. See Hotel Information for more details. More information: Please see links above or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. ______________________________________________ (2) New TFI telecom report now available, with Featured Graph and Key Findings: Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers: TFI forecasts continued increases in broadband speeds, hastening the obsolescence of broadband investment. This report, by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), provides recommendations for depreciation lives for broadband equipment such as video set-top boxes, headend equipment, and broadband loop electronics, including DSLAMs, DSL modems, and BPON equipment. Featured Graph and Key Findings: The required data rate for broadband is increasing rapidly, causing rapid obsolescence of broadband equipment. By 2010, about 75% of U.S. households will have broadband service, and over 15% of households will subscribe to very high-speed broadband (at least 24 Mb/s). See Featured Graph: Broadband Households by Nominal Date Rate. New video services such as IP video, Internet television, and HDTV are rapidly being adopted and improved. This will cause significant obsolescence of broadband equipment. The broadband, voice, and video networks are moving toward the IP paradigm, meaning less expensive equipment, rapid obsolescence, and marked volatility in applications, services, and network requirements. In each of the broadband architectures currently being deployed, significant amounts of active electronics are exposed to the elements (either on the side of a house or at a remote node) or to household activity. This will reduce depreciation lives. The research was sponsored by the Telecommunication Technology Forecasting Group, a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, Qwest, and Verizon. For more information and purchasing details, please see Broadband Equipment Lives for Local Exchange Carriers. For more information on TFI's work in the telecom area, please see Telecom Services or contact Carry Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (3) Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on "intelligent mechanical systems" now available: Mechatronics, A Technology Forecast: Mechatronics is another way of saying "intelligent mechanical systems" and it is the foundation of many 21st century enabling technologies. This publication, co-authored by TFI staff, includes an overview of mechatronic technology and analysis of related occupations and salaries, and lists of industry experts and mechatronics companies. The report was sponsored by the Texas State Technical College. For more information on TFI's work in this area, please see Services to Universities and Colleges or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (4) Complimentary report co-authored by TFI on an expanding technology now available: Home Technology Integration, A Technology Forecast: The market for integrating digital technology into residences is expanding beyond large, custom-built homes and into the broader mass housing market. This publication, co-authored by TFI's staff, includes an overview of HTI technology, the nature of HTI jobs and skills, and market drivers and constraints impacting the HTI industry. The report was sponsored by the Texas State Technical College. For more information on TFI's work in this area, please see Services to Universities and Colleges or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI: We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page. _______________________________________________ TFI Keynote & Event Speakers: We've had a very busy year for speaking engagements on technology convergence, telecom trends, and other subjects. For more information about TFI presentations and presentors, please visit our Speakers Page or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For 29 years, Technology Futures has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high-technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website. _______________________ TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please "Opt-Out" below. Copyright (c) 2007, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- <http://www.tfi.com> -- back to top Futures' Features: Top 7 Tech Trends/TFI Seminars Feb. 5-7 January 2007 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. To unsubscribe, please reply with "unsubscribe." In this issue (1) "Top Technology Trends for 2007" ~~TFI Provides List of Top Technology Trends!~~ (2) TFI Seminar Series: ~~Mon., Feb. 5: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html~~ ~~Tues., Feb. 6: Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html~~ ~~Wed., Feb. 7: Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html~~ Seminars Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) (Also Featuring Other Speakers and Invited Panelists) Seminars Location: Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all three days. Complete details on the seminar series are provided below for your convenience. (3) "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," ~~Key Findings of New Telecom Report Available to Readers~~ (1) "Top Technology Trends for 2007" ~~TFI Provides List of Top Technology Trends!~~ For the third year running, TFI provides a list of forward-looking trends for the coming year that will have significant impact on companies that use technology for competitive advantage. Commenting on the list, the author, David Smith (Vice President, TFI) states, "2005 and 2006 were periods spent building capacity and capabilities. We characterize 2007 as one of transition. We see tipping points in several technology areas, consequently positioning many companies in a multitude of markets. Two examples of these tipping points are broadband penetration and the death of single core processing chips." The list below provides more information on these trends and others that will be of great consequence to those involved with global business, technology business process, science and universities, government agencies, federal labs, corporate labs, and technology savvy consumers. For further analyses on each of the trends, please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2007-trends.html. TOP TECHNOLOGY TRENDS FOR 2007: Broadband and high-speed wireless penetration rapidly increases, as does the growth of new applications that can exploit these higher speeds. The IT world sees several tipping points with the death of single core processors and the emergence of multicore as the standard. This change will have rippling effects throughout the industry. Digital Convergence enters a new stage of growth and finally begins to exploit the benefits of horizontal digital convergence. The corporate scorecard is in transition. Global mergers and acquisitions continue to grow--the consolidation fueled by Sarbanes-Oxley Act compliance. The first market acceptance of smart phones for mobile commerce and epayments in North America is seen. This furthers the importance of smart phones and smart devices to the expanding impact of the Internet. The threat to security and privacy continues to be real, with a focus on authentication issues and the shifting digital rights management for devices outside traditional computing tools. The age of Bio continues to grow in importance as new products from the industry consolidations of 2006 begin coming to market in 2007/2008. For further analyses on each of the trends, please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2007-trends.html. For more information on TFI's trend and forecasting work, please contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. (2) TFI Seminar Series: Mon., Feb. 5: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html~~ Seminar Overview: This seminar provides a general introduction to the philosophy and methods behind TFI's forecasts in fields such as communications, information technology, and consumer electronics. Representative quantitative and qualitative tools are covered, with an emphasis on practical understanding and practical examples, rather than on theory. Strategic and planning implications of forecasting models will also be stressed. Practical exercises are included to enhance learning. Participants are requested to bring a laptop computer for the quantitative exercises. What you will gain: A toolbox of practical, proven forecasting techniques. The ability to project how rapidly new technologies will be adopted in the marketplace. The ability to identify and evaluate emerging market needs. The ability to determine the rate of obsolescence for existing technologies. Interaction with other professionals involved in technology/market forecasting. You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: Identifying new business opportunities. Projecting advances in technology. Developing market strategies. Developing R&D and/or business plans. Analyzing competitive threats. Managing technology projects and programs. Depreciation and valuation Seminar Topics: Five Views of the Future™ Quantitative Methods--Substitution and Trend Analysis Practical Tips for Forecasting Applications of Quantitative Methods Expert Opinion Methods Nominal Group and Impact Wheels Exercises Seminar Leader: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: John H. Vanston, Ph.D.(Chairman, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonj.html David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or hmvmarek@tfi.com. Tues., Feb. 6: Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html Seminar Overview: This seminar is a review of forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications. Broadband is now generally recognized as the key to success in the communications industry. It is the focus of the convergence of voice, video, data, and the Internet that is driving the competitive futurescape of the industry. The evolving role of wireless broadband is another key thread in the story. This seminar provides a comprehensive review of these trends and their driving forces, and provides TFI's latest forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications including VoIP, IP video, and wireless broadband. This seminar would be of interest to the following organizations: Telcos Cable Companies Wireless Broadband Providers Equipment Manufacturers Content Providers Municipal Broadband Providers Utility Broadband Providers Internet Service Providers You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: Strategic Planning Network Planning Technology Planning Finance Market Development Regulatory/Tax/Legal Depreciation and Assessment Seminar Topics: Broadband Adoption Forecasts Forecasts for Increased Bandwidth IP Video Forecasts: IPTV, Internet Television, HD IP Video Farewell POTS: VoIP, Instant Messaging, and Integrated Applications Wireless Broadband: Competitor or Complement? Multiple Aspects of Digital Convergence Comparison of Fiber-Based Access Alternatives Seminar Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. Wed., Feb. 7: Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html (We recommend that participants to this symposium also attend the other two seminars.) Symposium Overview: The necessity to provide very high-speed-broadband will cause the obsolescence and ultimate replacement of much of the existing communications equipment in the traditional telephone, wireless, and cable television networks. This symposium will focus on how to quantify the impact of technology change on the value of communications assets. It will also address important current issues in two feature sessions. You should attend this symposium if you are a professional or manager involved in: Financial Reporting Price Regulation Property Taxes Legal Asset Valuation Symposium Topics: Basics of Forecasting Technology Substitutions Using Technology Forecasting to Value Equipment Impacts of Competition on Equipment Value Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Technology Substitutions in Cable, Circuit Equipment, and Switching (2006 Update) Depreciation Lives for Broadband Assets including Set-Top Boxes Impacts of Technology Substitution on Wireless Networks FEATURED SESSION: Point-by-Point Comparison of the BCRI and Industry Views of Replacement Cost and Depreciation FEATURED SESSION: Who's on First? Valuation Issues with Triple-Play and Quad-Play Convergence Symposium Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/hodges.html Invited panelists to be announced Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this symposium, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. (3) "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," ~~Key Findings of New Telecom Report Available to Readers~~ Over the next 10 years, residential broadband will migrate to very-high-speed (VHS) broadband, with much higher data rates (24Mb/s and above), and much more continuous traffic, such as video. This and other findings from TFI's new report, "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," as well as purchasing details, can be found at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_awbcwb.html. Authored by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) , the research was sponsored by the Telecommunications Technology Forecasting Group (TTFG), a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, BellSouth Telecommunications, Qwest, and Verizon. Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page at http://www.tfi.com/pubs. TFI Keynote & Event Speakers For more information about TFI presentations, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/speaking/index.html or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. For nearly 30 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high- technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please reply with "unsubscribe" or contact us at the numbers below and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list. Copyright © 2007, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. Technology Futures, Inc. Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C  Fax: 512-258-0087 Austin, TX 78750-1859 email: info@tfi.com http://www.tfi.com back to top Futures' Features: Futures' Features: Telecom Report/TFI Seminars/Mfg. Article December 19, 2006 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. To unsubscribe, please reply with "unsubscribe." In this issue: (1) "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," ~~Key Findings of New Telecom Report~~ (2) TFI Seminar Series: ~~Mon., Feb. 5: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html~~ ~~Tues., Feb. 6: Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html~~ ~~Wed., Feb. 7: Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html~~ Seminar Director: Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) (Also Featuring Other Speakers and Invited Panelists) Seminar Location: Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all three days. (3) "Globalization Transformation" ~~Reed's Law Guides Changes, According to TFI Article~~ _______________________________________________ (1) "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," ~~Key Findings of New Telecom Report~~ A new report by TFI predicts wireless broadband can be economically deployed on a reasonably large scale--perhaps 20% of households--to offer the types of broadband services that DSL and cable modems offer now: that is, speeds in the range 1 Mb/s and relatively bursty traffic. For a list of other key findings and purchasing details for "Assessment of Wireless Broadband as a Competitor to Wireline Broadband," please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_awbcwb.html or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or drobison@tfi.com. Authored by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), the research was sponsored by the Telecommunications Technology Forecasting Group (TTFG), a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, BellSouth Telecommunications, Qwest, and Verizon. _______________________________________________ (2) TFI Seminar Series: ~~Mon., Feb. 5: Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html~~ Seminar Overview: This seminar provides a general introduction to the philosophy and methods behind TFI's forecasts in fields such as communications, information technology, and consumer electronics. Representative quantitative and qualitative tools are covered, with an emphasis on practical understanding and practical examples, rather than on theory. Strategic and planning implications of forecasting models will also be stressed. Practical exercises are included to enhance learning. Participants are requested to bring a laptop computer for the quantitative exercises. What you will gain: --A toolbox of practical, proven forecasting techniques. --The ability to project how rapidly new technologies will be adopted in the marketplace. --The ability to identify and evaluate emerging market needs. --The ability to determine the rate of obsolescence for existing technologies. --Interaction with other professionals involved in technology/market forecasting. You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: --Identifying new business opportunities. --Projecting advances in technology. --Developing market strategies. --Developing R&D and/or business plans. --Analyzing competitive threats. --Managing technology projects and programs. --Depreciation and valuation Seminar Topics: --Five Views of the Future™ --Quantitative Methods--Substitution and Trend Analysis --Practical Tips for Forecasting --Applications of Quantitative Methods --Expert Opinion Methods --Nominal Group and Impact Wheels --Exercises Seminar Leader: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --John H. Vanston, Ph.D.(Chairman, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonj.html --David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or hmvmarek@tfi.com. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ~~Tues., Feb. 6: Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html-~ Seminar Overview: This seminar is a review of forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications. Broadband is now generally recognized as the key to success in the communications industry. It is the focus of the convergence of voice, video, data, and the Internet that is driving the competitive futurescape of the industry. The evolving role of wireless broadband is another key thread in the story. This seminar provides a comprehensive review of these trends and their driving forces, and provides TFI's latest forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications including VoIP, IP video, and wireless broadband. This seminar would be of interest to the following organizations: --Telcos --Cable Companies --Wireless Broadband Providers --Equipment Manufacturers --Content Providers --Municipal Broadband Providers --Utility Broadband Providers --Internet Service Providers You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: --Strategic Planning --Network Planning --Technology Planning --Finance --Market Development --Regulatory/Tax/Legal --Depreciation and Assessment Seminar Topics: --Broadband Adoption Forecasts --Forecasts for Increased Bandwidth --IP Video Forecasts: IPTV, Internet Television, HD IP Video --Farewell POTS: VoIP, Instant Messaging, and Integrated Applications --Wireless Broadband: Competitor or Complement? --Multiple Aspects of Digital Convergence --Comparison of Fiber-Based Access Alternatives Seminar Director: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ~~Wed., Feb. 7: Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html~~ (We recommend that participants to this symposium also attend the other two seminars.) Symposium Overview: The necessity to provide very high-speed-broadband will cause the obsolescence and ultimate replacement of much of the existing communications equipment in the traditional telephone, wireless, and cable television networks. This symposium will focus on how to quantify the impact of technology change on the value of communications assets. It will also address important current issues in two feature sessions. You should attend this symposium if you are a professional or manager involved in: --Financial Reporting --Price Regulation --Property Taxes --Legal --Asset Valuation Symposium Topics: --Basics of Forecasting Technology Substitutions --Using Technology Forecasting to Value Equipment --Impacts of Competition on Equipment Value --Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Technology Substitutions in Cable, Circuit Equipment, and Switching (2006 Update) --Depreciation Lives for Broadband Assets including Set-Top Boxes --Impacts of Technology Substitution on Wireless Networks --FEATURED SESSION: Point-by-Point Comparison of the BCRI and Industry Views of Replacement Cost and Depreciation --FEATURED SESSION: Who's on First? Valuation Issues with Triple-Play and Quad-Play Convergence Symposium Director: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/hodges.html --Invited panelists to be announced Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Time and Location/Accommodations: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. For further information and to register for this symposium, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (3) "Globalization Transformation" ~~Reed's Law Guides Changes, According to TFI Article~~ Manufacturers must evolve into a new model of networking and collaboration if they are to succeed in today's business environment, according to David Smith (Vice President, TFI). Technology changes are now being guided by Reed's Law. Under this law, when a network allows users to form groups, the utility of large networks, particularly social networks, can scale exponentially with the size of the networks. These groups are self-formed through communications via the Internet, electronic devices, or other innovative methods. A key point is that these communicators are not just groups of people anymore, but devices communicating with devices. The fundamental shift in manufacturing and other industries is Reed's Law and self-forming groups. The new model connects research labs, free agents, academia, and new markets. The manufacturing sector cannot miss out on this change if it hopes to thrive in the emerging business economy. To find out more about Mr. Smith's work in this area, please see "Globalization Transformation" at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/pdf/TennessBus-8-06-Smith-Skelley.pdf or contact Carrie Vanston at at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ ***Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI*** We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page at http://www.tfi.com/pubs. _______________________________________________ ***TFI Keynote & Event Speakers*** For more information about TFI presentations, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/speaking/index.html or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For nearly 30 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high- technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. _______________________ TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please reply with "unsubscribe" or contact us at the numbers below and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list. Copyright (c) 2006, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- http://www.tfi.com -- back to top Futures' Features: TFI Seminars Feb. 5-7 - Forecasting/Broadband/Asset Valuation December 6, 2006 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. To unsubscribe, please reply with "unsubscribe." In this issue: Due to popular demand, we are pleased to announce that TFI will be conducting its three-day Mini Seminar Series again February 5-7, 2007, in Austin, Texas. Dr. Lawrence Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI) will be leading the seminars. We hope you will join us! TFI Seminar Series: (1) Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html ~~Monday, February 5, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ (2) Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html ~~Tuesday, February 6, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ (3) Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html (We recommend that participants to this symposium also attend the other two seminars.) ~~Wednesday, February 7, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ Seminars Director: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (Chairman, TFI) http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonj.html --David Smith (Vice President, TFI) http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html --Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI) http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/hodges.html --Invited panelists to be announced Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all three days. Seminars Location/Accommodations: The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, 200 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin, TX, (512) 472-1500 or (800) Hampton, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The hotel is in walking distance to Austin's famous 6th Street and close to the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and other popular Austin sites! For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or hmvmarek@tfi.com. Complete details are provided below for your convenience. ______________________________________________ (1) Technology Forecasting Mini Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_tfms.html ~~Monday, February 5, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Seminar Overview: This seminar provides a general introduction to the philosophy and methods behind TFI's forecasts in fields such as communications, information technology, and consumer electronics. Representative quantitative and qualitative tools are covered, with an emphasis on practical understanding and practical examples, rather than on theory. Strategic and planning implications of forecasting models will also be stressed. Practical exercises are included to enhance learning. Participants are requested to bring a laptop computer for the quantitative exercises. What you will gain: --A toolbox of practical, proven forecasting techniques. --The ability to project how rapidly new technologies will be adopted in the marketplace. --The ability to identify and evaluate emerging market needs. --The ability to determine the rate of obsolescence for existing technologies. --Interaction with other professionals involved in technology/market forecasting. You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: --Identifying new business opportunities. --Projecting advances in technology. --Developing market strategies. --Developing R&D and/or business plans. --Analyzing competitive threats. --Managing technology projects and programs. --Depreciation and valuation Seminar Topics: --Five Views of the Future(TM) --Quantitative Methods--Substitution and Trend Analysis --Practical Tips for Forecasting --Applications of Quantitative Methods --Expert Opinion Methods --Nominal Group and Impact Wheels --Exercises Seminar Leader: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --John H. Vanston, Ph.D.(Chairman, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonj.html --David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Location/Accommodations: The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, TX, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. A block of rooms will be held until January 15. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (2) Broadband Futures Seminar, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_bf.html ~~Tuesday, February 6, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Seminar Overview: This seminar is a review of forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications. Broadband is now generally recognized as the key to success in the communications industry. It is the focus of the convergence of voice, video, data and the Internet that is driving the competitive futurescape of the industry. The evolving role of wireless broadband is another key thread in the story. This seminar provides a comprehensive review of these trends and their driving forces, and provides TFI's latest forecasts and insights regarding broadband and its applications including VoIP, IP video, and wireless broadband. This seminar would be of interest to the following organizations: --Telcos --Cable Companies --Wireless Broadband Providers --Equipment Manufacturers --Content Providers --Municipal Broadband Providers --Utility Broadband Providers --Internet Service Providers You should attend this seminar if you are involved in: --Strategic Planning --Network Planning --Technology Planning --Finance --Market Development --Regulatory/Tax/Legal --Depreciation and Assessment Seminar Topics: --Broadband Adoption Forecasts --Forecasts for Increased Bandwidth --IP Video Forecasts: IPTV, Internet Television, HD IP Video --Farewell POTS: VoIP, Instant Messaging, and Integrated Applications --Wireless Broadband: Competitor or Complement? --Multiple Aspects of Digital Convergence --Comparison of Fiber-Based Access Alternatives Seminar Director: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --David Smith (Vice President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/smithd.html Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Seminar Location/Accommodations: The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, TX, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. A block of rooms will be held until January 15. For further information and to register for this seminar, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (3) Impacts of Broadband on Asset Valuation Symposium, http://www.tfi.com/sems/public_ibt.html (We recommend that participants to this symposium also attend the other two seminars.) ~~Wednesday, February 7, 2007, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, Texas~~ 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Symposium Overview: The necessity to provide very high speed broadband will cause the obsolescence and ultimate replacement of much of the existing communications equipment in the traditional telephone, wireless, and cable television networks. This symposium will focus on how to quantify the impact of technology change on the value of communications assets. It will also address important current issues in two feature sessions. You should attend this symposium if you are a professional or manager involved in: --Financial Reporting --Price Regulation --Property Taxes --Legal --Asset Valuation Symposium Topics: --Basics of Forecasting Technology Substitutions --Using Technology Forecasting to Value Equipment --Impacts of Competition on Equipment Value --Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Technology Substitutions in Cable, Circuit Equipment, and Switching (2006 Update) --Depreciation Lives for Broadband Assets including Set-Top Boxes --Impacts of Technology Substitution on Wireless Networks --FEATURED SESSION: Point-by-Point Comparison of the BCRI and the Industry Views of Replacement Cost and Depreciation --FEATURED SESSION: Who's on First? Valuation Issues with Triple-Play and Quad-Play Convergence Symposium Director: --Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (President, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/vanstonl.html Also featuring: --Ray L. Hodges (Senior Consultant, TFI), http://www.tfi.com/staff/bios/hodges.html --Invited panelists to be announced Price: $495 each day or $1,250 for all 3 days. Symposium Location/Accommodations: The Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Austin, TX, http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=AUSDTHX. The TFI room rate is $139.00 per night, plus tax. A block of rooms will be held until January 15. For further information and to register for this symposium, please click the links above, or contact Helen Mary Marek at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ ***Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI*** We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page at http://www.tfi.com/pubs. _______________________________________________ ***TFI Keynote & Event Speakers*** For more information about TFI presentations, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/speaking/index.html or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For nearly 30 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high- technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. _______________________ TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please reply with "unsubscribe" or contact us at the numbers below and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list. Copyright (c) 2006, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- http://www.tfi.com back to top Futures' Features: Globalization Transformation/Talks/Market Segment/more September 2006 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. To unsubscribe, please reply with "unsubscribe." In this issue (1) "Globalization Transformation" ~~ TFI Manufacturing Article Available~~ (2) "Future Trends, Technology, and Innovation: The Enablers for Transformation" ~~David Smith, Keynote Speaker, Future Technologies Conference II, National Nuclear Security Administration, Washington , D.C. , October 11-13, 2006~~ (3) "Top Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" ~~David Smith, Speaker, Innotech Conference, Austin, Texas, November 2, 2006. TFI Offers Complimentary Admission!~~ (4) "A Futurist's Perspective: It's More Than Just Technology" ~~David Smith, Keynote Speaker, MEMS Executive Congress, Scottsdale, Arizona, November 5-7, 2006~~ (5) Commercial Companies ~~Market Segment Added to TFI Website~~ (6) "Need for Speed" ~~San Diego Union-Tribune Article on Demand for Bandwidth~~ (7) "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition" ~~TFI Telecom Report and Complimentary Graph: "Broadband Households by Nominal Data Rate, Percentage of Households"~~ (8) "Biotechnology: A Guide to Business and Workplace Development" ~~TFI Offers 15% Off Biotech Report and Complimentary Graph: "Importance of Various Factors to Biotech Company Success"~~ (9) TFI's Range of Technology Expertise ~~TFI Demonstrates Its Diversity Across Industries and Technologies~~ _______________________________________________ (1) "Globalization Transformation" ~~TFI Manufacturing Article Available~~ Collaboration and networking are vital to success in today's global business environment. In this article appearing in Tennessee's Business Magazine, David Smith (TFI, Vice President) and C.A. Skelley (TFI Research Analyst) discuss the importance of corporations becoming truly global, as opposed to simply multinational, with consolidated investment, planning, and decision-making functions; trade and supply networks; and production activities and investments spread throughout the world. To read the full article, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pubs/white.html. For more on present technology trends, you may also be interested in TFI's paper, "Top 7 Technology Trends for 2006" at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2006-trends.html. For details on our business forecasting services, please contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (2) "Future Trends, Technology, and Innovation: The Enablers for Transformation" ~~David Smith, Keynote Speaker, Future Technologies Conference II, National Nuclear Security Administration, Washington, D.C., October 11-13, 2006~~ This forum centers on new and emerging technologies, manufacturing methods, and business practices to enable the Weapons Complex to successfully execute its mission and support its defense and national security partners. David Smith (TFI Vice President) is speaking as keynote on "Future Trends, Technology, and Innovation: The Enablers for Transformation" from 8:15-9:45 a.m. on October 12, 2006. For more information, please see http://www.tfi.com/sems/conference_ftc2-2006.html. _______________________________________________ (3) "Top Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" ~~David Smith, Speaker, Innotech Conference, Austin, Texas, November 2, 2006. TFI Offers Complimentary Admission!~~ Austin InnoTech assembles the leading business and technology executives in the state for answers to your IT issues and real-world case studies. David Smith (TFI Vice President) will speak on "Top Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" at 9:00 a.m. on November 2. For more information, please see http://www.tfi.com/sems/conference_innotech-2006.html. TFI is pleased to offer complimentary General Admission to Futures' Features readers. (A $30 value.) When registering, enter SML999 in the "Discount Code" field. _______________________________________________ (4) "A Futurist's Perspective: It's More Than Just Technology" ~~David Smith, Keynote Speaker, MEMS Executive Congress, Scottsdale, Arizona, November 5-7, 2006~~ The MEMS Executive Congress brings together a diverse group of business luminaries from a wide variety of industries including bio, automotive, data storage, defense, mobile phones, etc. David Smith (TFI Vice President) will kick off the conference with the opening reception keynote on "A Futurist's Perspective: It's More Than Just Technology" at 7:00 p.m. on November 5. For more information, please see http://www.tfi.com/sems/conference_exec-cong-2006.html. ______________________________________________ (5) Commercial Companies~~Market Segment Added to TFI Website~~ TFI's nearly three decades of experience in the development of technology and market forecasts and strategy provides commercial companies with a decisive market advantage. TFI assists with defining the key advances required in the development of needed products and technologies, the transformation of organizations to new futures, and outlining programs to meet those needs. For more information about our services in the commercial arena, please visit our new webpage at http://www.tfi.com/rescon/commercial.html, or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _________________________________________ (6) "Need for Speed" ~~San Diego Union-Tribune Article on Demand for Bandwidth~~ David Smith (TFI Vice President) discusses the household drivers for increasing bandwidth speed in this August 21, 2006, San Diego Union-Tribune article by Jonathan Sidener. To view the full article, please go to http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/tech/personaltech/20060821-9999-mz1b21need.html. _________________________________________ (7) "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition" ~~TFI Telecom Report and Complimentary Graph: "Broadband Households by Nominal Data Rate, Percentage of Households"~~ According to this report, incumbent local exchange networks have no choice but to invest in new technology and offer high-speed broadband and video to stay in the game. This report presents the latest TFI forecasts for the North American local exchange network, covering switching, circuit equipment, and outside plant. The report also includes TFI's latest recommendations on depreciation lives for local exchange telephone plant, accounting for technology displacement, and loss of access lines due to competition. Authored by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President) and Ray L. Hodges (TFI Senior Consultant), the research was sponsored by the Telecommunications Technology Forecasting Group, a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, BellSouth Telecommunications, Qwest, and Verizon. A complimentary graph from the report, "Broadband Households by Nominal Data Rate, Percentage of Households," is available at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/g02006_tlen-fig2.html. For more information and purchasing details for "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition," please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_tlen.html, or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. __________________________________________ (8) "Biotechnology: A Guide to Business and Workplace Development" ~~TFI Offers 15% Off Biotech Report and Complimentary Graph: "Importance of Various Factors to Biotech Company Success"~~ Authored by John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI Chairman) and Henry Elliott (TFI Research Analyst), this is a must-have report for individuals and small and medium-sized businesses interested in entering or expanding activities in the biotechnology industry. This report gives a detailed overview and analysis of employment opportunities, drivers for success, funding sources, potential buyers and sellers, and research and commercialization opportunities. A complimentary copy of a graph from the report, "Importance of Various Factors to Biotech Company Success," is available at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/g02006_biotech-fig1.html. We are pleased to offer our Futures' Features' readers a 15% discount off the report price of $350. Please enter bio258 in the "Marketing Code" area to receive the discount. For more information on the report, please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_biotech.html, or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _________________________________________ (9) TFI's Range of Technology Expertise ~~TFI Demonstrates Its Diversity Across Industries & Technologies~~ In the last couple of years, TFI has demonstrated great diversity through work in different technologies, markets, and industries. Activities have encompassed: --Consulting in a broad range of areas including the impacts of technology markets and corporate strategy. --Major conference speaking engagements in broad technology circles including telecommunications, advanced manufacturing, semiconductor, emerging devices, nanotechnology, and energy. --Publishing and writing in many areas including telecommunications, global manufacturing, broadband wireless, biotechnology, homeland security, and advanced digital manufacturing. What does this mean to you? TFI's experience and insight in all segments of global business can help you know where the future is going, and the most advantageous way for your own organization to get there. To find out more, please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ ***Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI*** We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page at http://www.tfi.com/pubs. _______________________________________________ ***TFI Keynote & Event Speakers*** For more information about TFI presenters, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/speaking/index.html or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For 28 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high- technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. _______________________ TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please reply with "unsubscribe" or contact us at the numbers below and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list. Copyright (c) 2006, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- http://www.tfi.com back to top Futures' Features: Biotech Report/Telecom Report/Digital Seminar & Article/ITEC Seminar/More April 2006 Futures' Features is a future-oriented resource for our contacts and clients at Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI). Please feel free to pass our e-letter on to others. To unsubscribe, please reply with "unsubscribe." In this issue (1) "Biotechnology: A Guide to Business and Workplace Development" ~~New Biotech Report Available Now!~~ ~~Featured Graph: "Importance of Various Factors to Biotech Company Success"~~ (2) "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition" ~~New TFI Telecom Report Available Now!~~ ~~Featured Graph: "Broadband Households by Nominal Data Rate, Percentage of Households"~~ ~~TMCnet Reviews New Telecom Report~~ (3) "Digital Regions Seminar: Public Private Strategies for IT-Cluster Development" ~~TFI is Seminar Partner, David Smith (TFI VP), Panel Chair/Speaker, May 1-2, 2006, Austin, Texas. TFI is Pleased to Offer $100 discount!~~ (4) "The 5 Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" ~~Lawrence Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President) gives Keynote at ITEC Conferences, May 17-18, in Houston, Texas and June 7-8 in Dallas, Texas. TFI is Pleased to Offer Complimentary Passes to Our Readers (a $200 Value!) for Both Events.~~ (5) "Future Shock: Enough With the Past. We Ask 5 Futurists to Describe the Changes Coming our Way" ~~TFI Contributes Digital Home Piece to Network World's 20th Anniversary Article~~ (6) "Forecasts for Broadband Communications" ~~Cabling Installation & Maintenance Reviews TFI Analyst Report~~ _______________________________________________ (1) "Biotechnology: A Guide to Business and Workplace Development" ~~New Biotech Report Available Now!~~ A must-have report for individuals and small and medium-sized businesses interested in entering or expanding activities in the biotechnology industry. The report gives a detailed overview and analysis of employment opportunities, drivers for success, funding sources, potential buyers and sellers, and research and commercialization opportunities. It includes direct input from experts currently working in the biotech area. It also includes a detailed, up-to-date listing of initiatives and players in the state of Texas. The report was authored by John H. Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI Chairman) and Henry Elliott (TFI Research Analyst). ~~Featured Graph: "Importance of Various Factors to Biotech Company Success"~~ A complimentary copy of this graph is available at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/g02006_biotech-fig1.html. The report is priced at $350. For more information and purchasing details for "Biotechnology: A Guide to Business and Workplace Development," please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_biotech.html, or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (2) "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition" ~~New TFI Telecom Report Available Now!~~ According to TFI's new report, incumbent local exchange networks (ILECs) have no choice but to invest in new technology and offer high-speed broadband and video to stay in the game. This report presents the latest TFI forecasts for the North American local exchange network, covering switching, circuit equipment, and outside plant. The report also includes TFI's latest recommendations on depreciation lives for local exchange telephone plant, accounting for technology displacement, and loss of access lines due to competition. Authored by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President) and Ray L. Hodges (TFI Senior Consultant), the research was sponsored by the Telecommunications Technology Forecasting Group, a consortium of telephone companies comprised of AT&T, Bell Canada, BellSouth Telecommunications, Qwest, and Verizon. ~~Featured Graph: "Broadband Households by Nominal Data Rate, Percentage of Households"~~ This complimentary graph from the report forecasts that, by 2010, about 75% of U.S. households will have broadband service, and about 12% of households will subscribe to very high-speed broadband (at least 24 Mb/s). The graph is available at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/g02006_tlen-fig2.html. ~~TMCnet's Review of the New Report~~ A March 10 review of this report by Patrick Barnard of TMCnet, "ILECs Must Upgrade Their Networks if They Are to Survive," appears at http://www.tmcnet.com/channels/hosted-ip/articles/653-report-ilecs-must-upgrade-their-networks-if-they.htm. The report is priced at $2,495. For more information and purchasing details for "Transforming the Local Exchange Network: Third Edition," please see http://www.tfi.com/pubs/r/r02006_tlen.html, or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (3) "Digital Regions Seminar: Public Private Strategies for IT-Cluster Development" ~~TFI is Seminar Partner, David Smith (TFI VP), Panel Chair/Speaker, May 1-2, 2006, Austin, Texas. TFI is pleased to offer $100 Discount!~~ TFI is pleased to be a Partner for the Digital Regions Seminar. David Smith (TFI VP) is Chair of the Panel, "Public Private Partnerships for Cluster Development," and will also be speaking on "Austin and Texas In Transition: A New Way of Looking at the Future Economy." The seminar will take place on May 1-2 at the Thompson Conference Center, The University of Texas at Austin, 2405 Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, Texas. It is organized by IC2 Institute at the University of Texas, The City of Austin, and the Technopolicy Network, Netherlands. TFI is pleased to offer our readers a discount of $100 from the $550 seminar price. For more information and the discount code, see http://www.tfi.com/sems/conference_drs.html. _______________________________________________ (4) "The 5 Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" ~~Lawrence Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President) gives Keynote at ITEC Conferences, May 17-18, in Houston, Texas and June 7-8 in Dallas, Texas. TFI is Pleased to Offer Complimentary Passes to Our Readers (a $200 Value!) for Both Events.~~ ITEC is the nations' largest series of regional business-to-business IT events featuring technologies that improve business productivity and performance. Lawrence Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President) is speaking as Keynote Speaker on "The 5 Technology Trends You Can't Ignore" for the upcoming Houston and Dallas ITEC Conferences. The Houston event will be at Reliance Center, May 17-18, and the Dallas event will be at the Dallas Convention Center, June 7-8. For more information on the conferences, please see http://www.tfi.com/sems/conference_itec-2006.html. For complimentary full program passes (a $200 value), please register with the following codes: ITEC Houston: Priority Code TCNHU533, ITEC Dallas: Priority Code TCNDA533. (For more on TFI's views on technology trends for 2006, please see next entry.) _______________________________________________ (5) "Future Shock: Enough With the Past. We Ask 5 Futurists to Describe the Changes Coming our Way" ~~TFI contributes Digital Home Piece to Network World's 20th Anniversary Article~~ David Smith (TFI Vice President) is one of five futurists contributing to an article describing technological changes that are coming our way. Appearing in the March 27, 20th Anniversary issue of Network World, his piece, "The Digital Home: Get Ready for On-Demand Gaming, IP TV and Do-It-Yourself Everything," can be found at http://www.networkworld.com/supp/2006/anniversary/032706-future.html?page=4a. The complete article is available at http://www.networkworld.com/supp/2006/anniversary/032706-future.html. For more on the technology trends to look for in 2006 and on to the future, please see TFI's white paper, "Top 7 Technology Trends for 2006," by David Smith, at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/w/ti_2006-trends.html. For more information about TFI's trend and forecasting work, please contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or by e-mail at cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ (6) "Forecasts for Broadband Communications" Review ~~Cabling Installation & Maintenance Reviews TFI Analyst Paper~~ A review of TFI analyst paper, "Forecasts for Broadband Communication," appeared in the January 4 issue of Cabling Installation & Maintenance Magazine. Entitled "Report: Broadband Will Continue to be Adopted at a Rapid Rate," it is available at http://cim.pennnet.com/articles/article_display.cfm?Section=ARCHI&C=TOPST&ARTICLE_ID=244797&KEYWORDS=Vanston&p=27. The paper, authored by Lawrence K. Vanston, Ph.D. (TFI President), provides TFI forecasts and analyses for the growth of residential broadband and higher broadband speeds. Priced at $199, more information and purchasing details can be found at http://www.tfi.com/pubs/p/p2005-fhbbs.html, or contact Debra Robison at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or info@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ ***Technology and Telecom Reports and White Papers Available at TFI*** We provide several technology forecasting guides and technology and telecom reports and papers, as well as white papers and other publications. For more information, please visit our Publications Page at http://www.tfi.com/pubs. _______________________________________________ ***TFI Keynote & Event Speakers*** For more information about TFI presenters, please visit http://www.tfi.com/pressroom/speaking/index.html or contact Carrie Vanston at (800) TEK-FUTR, (512) 258-8898, or cvanston@tfi.com. _______________________________________________ For 28 years, TFI has helped organizations plan for the future by offering outstanding technology forecasting, strategic planning, trend analysis, and strategic market research services in high- technology and telecom technologies. Drawing on proven, quantifiable forecasting methods and strategic applications, we combine the vision of the futurist with the down-to-earth judgment of the technologist to be "Your Bridge to the Future." If you believe you can benefit from sound, credible projections of the future that reflect reality and imagination, please contact us by telephone at (512) 258-8898 or (800) TEK-FUTR, by fax at (512) 258-0087, or by e-mail at info@tfi.com. We welcome your inquiries. ~~TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TFI ~~ Please visit our website at http://www.tfi.com. _______________________ TFI's email list is comprised of customers and contacts who have expressed interest in our company. Please feel free to pass this e-letter on to any colleagues who would like to have a better understanding of the future before it arrives. We welcome new subscribers--please return with "subscribe." We respect your online privacy. If you would like to be removed from this list, please reply with "unsubscribe" or contact us at the numbers below and we will promptly remove you from our distribution list. Copyright (c) 2006, Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. All product names contained herein are the trademarks of holder. -- Technology Futures, Inc. -- Tel: (800) TEK-FUTR or (512) 258-8898 -- -- 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C -- Fax: 512-258-0087 -- -- Austin, TX 78750-1859 -- email: info@tfi.com -- -- http://www.tfi.com Futures' Feature Archive Copyright © Technology Futures, Inc. All rights reserved. 13740 Research Blvd., Bldg. C Austin, TX 78750-1859 Toll Free: (800) TEK-FUTR - Local & Outside USA: (512) 258-8898 FAX: (512) 258-0087 - e-mail: info@tfi.com - http://www.tfi.com