High Investments in IPTV, Digital TV, Video Content and VoIP Services Set for 2007

November 15, 2006 - Amdocs has released results of a survey looking at the communications industry trends in the U.S. and U.K. in 2007. Based on the responses of 200 industry decision makers in the telecom, cable and satellite industries, Amdocs forecasts service providers will significantly increase investment in customer service, network infrastructure and IP-based services, as well as build their digital content offerings.

Survey predictions indicate that service providers anticipate continuing to roll out Internet Protocol or IP-based services. In the next year, according to survey respondents, IPTV, digital TV, video content and VoIP (voice over IP) are expected to be the top products and services for 2007, with spending in network infrastructure for these three areas projected to increase significantly.

According to Amdocs, service providers are expected to increase their investment in customer service and network infrastructure, which will improve the customer experience. Nearly 67 percent of respondents plan to increase their spending on customer service enhancements over the next year, with the average investment increase projected at 31 percent. Service providers are planning to put more money into network infrastructure, with the average investment increase expected to be 33 percent.

"The survey confirms our own observations - 2007 will be characterized by the four C's -competition, consolidation, convergence and, most importantly, the customer," said Michael Matthews, chief marketing officer of Amdocs. "With ongoing market consolidation, continuing industry convergence and a highly competitive environment, service providers will place an increased focus on the customer experience in 2007. Consumers expect relevant offerings and personalized, responsive service, and providers indicate a significant increase in investments to address this need."