Since the early
90’s we have been witnessing the convergence of telecommunications, data networking
and broadcasting. The coming together is becoming more and more important as can be seen
by the multitude of services provided over digital networks, ranging from information
retrieval and multimedia data, to telephony. The communications technologies (cable,
satellite, data networks) are being harnessed for the provision of a wide range of
interactive services as opposed to the specialised provision of earlier decades.
For example, digital TV will not only be used
for programme distribution but also increasingly for teaching and learning, commerce and
general entertainment.
PG Net 2002
PGNet 2002 is an initiative,
sponsored by the EPSRC and supported by key industrial and academic
players in the fields of telecommunications, data networking and broadcasting, for the
creation of a forum for UK based postgraduate students in these fields, to enable the
exchange of ideas and experiences. The gathering, which is intended to become an annual
fixture, includes conference presentations and workshops. This will provide the much
needed training and preparation for the future. PGNet 2001 will also be attended by well
known researchers, industrialists and broadcasters in these areas and therefore will
provide the crucial feedback mechanisms required in the development of the research and
the young researchers. |
 Telcos, like BT, are looking to re-focus their
business from pure telephony to a generic information service provider.This convergence of
telecommunications, data networking and broadcasting has very important implications for
globalisation in the businesses (as can be seen by recent mergers e.g. Warner and AOL). It
also has a major impact in everyday’s life from shopping and entertainment to
education.
An important benefit that would accrue out of
such a gathering is the cross fertilisation between the different disciplines and mix of
experiences and interests and will lead to the development of a network of
people.
The participation of postgraduate students in
forums of this type is a vital activity in the development of the UK research base. The
exchange between young researchers and leading experts should provide an exciting and
stimulating environment for the development of quality research. It is also an opportunity
for postgraduate students to build industrial contacts and forge future partnerships and
collaborative work. |
