In light of the increasing acceptance of thenotion of Next Generation Networks (NGN),which will result from the convergence of thefixed and mobile telecommunications, Internet,and entertainment sectors, there is a need for therealization of next-generation service deliveryplatforms to allow seamless and adaptive provisioningof multimedia information and communicationservices to mobile users. This means thatin such an NGN environment different end systems,access networks, and service platforms haveto be integrated. For this highly heterogeneouscommunications and services environment, wepropose a self-adaptive service provisioning middlewareframework (ASPF), which, by interoperatingwith existing wireless and wireline servicedelivery platforms, aims to enable seamlessomnipresent service provisioning to mobile usersanywhere, anytime, and in any context. TheASPF is intended to “liberate” applications fromspace and time limitations, networks, platforms,and device dependences, minimize time-to-marketconstraints, and eliminate major hurdles thathinder the rapid deployment of new mobile servicesand applications. Key to this goal is interworking/integration with current SDPs, such asIN/CAMEL, OSA/Parlay, and the emerging IMS.
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