[wg-c] Chicken. Egg. Theory. Reality.

[WICG@aol.com]

I couldn't agree more with the "chicken and egg" scenario drawn by Harold 
Feld. For good or ill, I'm not involved with the technical issues of root 
server capacities, etc. - but I am frustrated daily in spending inordinate 
(and unbillable) amounts of time trying to register a decent, memorable .com 
website for clients. Nothing is left. I know, I know...this is a common 
complaint and not terribly original, but there is an URGENT need for new TLD 
relief out here in the end-user zone.  

I am sensitive to the dispute resolution problems and their complexities, but 
I would suggest that the parties responsible for those solution formulas 
would be much more likely to envision and solve the issues if 6 - 10 new TLDs 
were officially headed right at them. Enough theory. A marketing or business 
plan comes alive when the first real steps are taken - not imagined. Forward 
movement from this WG will spark positive action throughout the 
organizations.     

On a related point, I monitor the discussions of this WG on behalf of a small 
group of Caribbean governments/clients interested in establishing a regional 
TLD. My clients have heard from me and other sources that the <new> Internet 
organizations place a high priority on de-centralizing the old order, 
dominated by North American and western European interests. Things were going 
to change to some degree. There would be greater internet opportunities and 
relationships for developing areas of the world. Sounds great, and my clients 
were very encouraged only a few months ago. Mind you, this case is but a 
tiny, tiny blip on the radar screen of ICANN and the DNSO - and many of you 
have much larger concerns - but the pace of action in this new TLD matter has 
not been lost on these small governments and companies.  They've been paying 
attention to the non-results. Seems like nothing has changed, after all. Is 
that the message we want to be sending? 

Sincerely,
Jay Parker
West Indies Communications Group
www.westcomgroup.com