Switching in a competitive market

The author examines the significance of the competitive positioning of the local exchange carriers with regard to their expectations of their network equipment providers and, in particular, the providers of the whole range of capabilities that fall within the broad category of switching. The point of view is that of a local exchange carrier whose principal products are public exchange access services, as defined by the AT&T divestiture agreement. Development of services, customer participation, transport capabilities, implementation agreements, and industry cooperation are discussed