ISP Review interviews UK ISP Telewest (blueyonder)

Many entry-level broadband services are now priced comparably with some un-metered dial-up services and most market research suggests that, at such a price, mass-market adoption is not inhibited. During the latter two quarters of 2004, growth in the broadband market has crossed the tipping point to mass-market adoption. This has been driven by a proliferation of sub £20 price points and increased awareness through advertising.

Longer term, tapping into the late majority and laggard adopters, who today either do not have internet access or are on a flexible pay-as-you-go pricing package, may require broadband operators to deploy new pricing models, such as pay-per-minute or pre-pay models.

10) Is Local Loop Unbundling something your provider has considered, already invested in or would consider in the future and why?

Telewest Broadband is always considering new technologies, such as LLU, and we may move forward if we felt it became economically viable over and above other opportunities. At the moment though, our core focus is on continuing to deliver a world class broadband service to customers in our existing franchise areas.

11) Finally, what do you perceive as being the most important developments for your ISP in the coming year (2005)?

We will again be leading the pack of UK broadband providers, using our network ownership to maintain a unique end-to-end customer experience. Three areas are key to delivering this in 2005.

Firstly, we need to maintain our speed advantage whilst making it meaningful and relevant to our customers.

Secondly, we will continue to grow, whilst not sacrificing the customer experience. A key to this will be new product features that make Telewest Broadband’s services easier and simpler to use - new security services, easier installation processes, and more tools so customers can help themselves.

Finally, as ISPs and new market entrants start to offer video and telephony over the internet, Telewest Broadband will no longer have exclusive ownership of the triple-play offering (phone, internet and TV). But we’ll have more experience and a better platform for delivering all three services compared to any of our competitors. In 2005, we’ll be offering new features and enhancements which will separate the men from the boys.

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ISP Review sends thanks to Telewest's Chad Raube for taking time out to answer our questions.

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