Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Telecommunications Regulation Toolkit?

A: The Telecommunications Regulation Toolkit is a dynamic web-based tool, divided into several modules which are being developed over the 2005-2006 period. The Toolkit is an update and expansion of infoDev’s popular and influential Telecommunications Regulation Handbook. Building upon its predecessor’s success, the Toolkit is an Internet-based tool which will periodically be updated to provide regulators, telecom service providers, policy makers, sector experts and the general public with the latest on regulatory topics, best practices, and case studies.

Q: How do I use the Toolkit website?

A: Select the link entitled “How To Use The Toolkit”, which includes an overview of the various components of the Toolkit website, their relationships and how to navigate the site.

Q: How do I search the Toolkit?

A: The Toolkit includes a search function located in the top left corner of the webpage.  Searches can also be conducted by reviewing the topics and sub-topics listed in the Table of Contents on the left side of the Toolkit pages.  In addition, users may search for relevant documents by clicking the tables of Practice Notes and Reference Documents listed under "Other Resources" on the left bottom corner of the web pages.

Q: What is the Telecommunications Regulations Handbook?

A: The Telecommunications Regulation Handbook was one of infoDev's most successful publications. It was prepared in 2000 by Hank Intven, Edgardo Sepulveda and Jeremy Oliver of McCarthy Tétrault, a leading telecommunications law and consulting firm.  It has been translated and published in 6 languages, and downloaded numerous times from the InfoDev website. The Telecommunications Regulation Toolkit has evolved from the Handbook. The Handbook focuses on good-practice available to implement clear and effective regulatory reform initiatives required for the introduction of competition, privatization and more efficient telecom markets in emerging and industrialized economies. It includes introductory descriptions and overviews of the regulatory methods employed by regulators in different countries.

Q: What modules will infoDev introduce in the 2005/2006 period?

A: In addition to the module entitled Authorization of Telecommunications Services, infoDev plans to consolidate, update and revise the remaining 5 modules of the Telecommunications Regulation Handbook content (Overview of Telecommunications Regulation, Interconnection, Price Regulation, Competition Policy, Universal Service).  InfoDev is also planning to develop new modules in areas such as: (1) New Technologies and Regulation; and (2) Radio Spectrum Management.