Some analysts believe that the convergence of wireline and wireless - and more importantly, the convergence of multiple mobile wireless technologies into a single handset with the real-time handoff of a connection - defines the ultimate wireless solution. But others believe that the deployment of a single technology using both traditional cells and indoor femtocells is a much simpler - and much more effective - approach. This session will examine fixed/mobile convergence, mobile/mobile convergence, device and software trends, and femtocells and related approaches in a debate designed to answer this fundamental question for enterprise IT managers and users.
Moderator -
Michael Finneran, Principal, dBrn Associates
Michael is an independent consultant, industry analyst, and writer who focuses on wireless technologies, mobile UC, and fixed-mobile convergence. He wrote the book "Voice Over Wireless LANs- The Complete Guide" (Elsevier, 2008), though his expertise spans the full range of wireless technologies including Wi-Fi, Cellular, WiMAX, and RFID. A lively and informative speaker, Michael has made frequent appearances at trade shows and conferences including VoiceCon and InterOp, and he now serves as the program chair for Wireless and Mobility at VoiceCon. In the consulting area, Mr. Finneran has provided assistance to a carriers, equipment vendors, end users, and investment firms. A prolific writer, for twenty-three years he wrote the Networking Intelligence column for "Business Communications Review". He now contributes on wireless and mobility to NoJitter as well as UC Strategies. He has published numerous white papers and has contributed to Computerworld, Data Communications, The Ticker, and The ACUTA Journal. A long-time member of the IEEE and the Society for Telecommunications consultants, Mr. Finneran holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (Magna Cum Laude) from Manhattan College and a Masters Degree from the J. L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.
