CEOs need to stay on top of ever-changing technology, regulatory and marketing conditions. To that end, COMPTEL is hosting a timely panel for competitive telecom executives, led by long-time telecom lawyer Andy Lipman, a partner at Bingham McCutchen LLP.

Telecom is such a changing kaleidoscope of issues that its a good time to address certain matters so CEOs can stay on top of their business models, Lipman said. Topics will include financial considerations and management as they relate to a shifting regulatory climate, as well as eyeing any needed changes to sales techniques.

Those models are fluid there is no one-size-fits-all strategy. So, Lipman will pitch some ideas to help executives determine whats best for their companies.

For example, a number of resellers have gotten into the VoIP business because it costs less and has fewer regulations than traditional telephony. But because the FCC and the courts are starting to narrow that distinction, its time for unregulated companies to consider the advantages of being regulated, said Lipman. Advantages include being able to interconnect directly with LECs, have tariffed rates, and gain some of the protections that limit liability, he said.

Lipman also will discuss other ideas for changing up the standard business model as competitors continue to innovate on pricing, marketing and portfolios.

Bingham McCutchen LLP www.bingham.com