1. R8E4 and XML Date: January 12th 2006 Authors: January 2006
doc.: IEEE /xxxxr0
January 2006
R8E4 and XML
Date: January 12th 2006
Authors:
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Andrew Myers, BT
Andrew Myers, BT

2. Abstract Requirement R8E4 States that :
January 2006
doc.: IEEE /xxxxr0
January 2006
Abstract
Requirement R8E4 States that :
Functionality shall be provided by which APs can advertise (before connection) the charges that will be made for use of the network if a user enrolls with it.
The Associated Note reads as follows:
While in principle most people would like this to be possible, there are a significant number of people who doubt that a practical and consistent mechanism can be defined. For this reason the group has marked it as optional – they are open to proposals in this area.
Status: Not Required - Optional
Andrew Myers, BT
Andrew Myers, BT

3. January 2006
Background
This requirement could more specifically state that: “Once a device discovers and connects with an AP, the AP will then advertise a choice of available WLAN Service Providers (WSPs) available to them.”
The advertisement will also provide information on charging information associated to the available WSPs.
A user will then be able to select the WSP that they wish to use, based on choice of service provider being offered.
Billing reasons
Current account holder with a service provider . [Eg. Verizon, BT Openzone, Vodafone or DoCoMo etc.]
For regulatory reasons the consumer needs to given the opportunity to see what competitive rates are being offered
Andrew Myers, BT

4. January 2006
Is XML The Solution?
The question is, whether there is a practical and globally consistent mechanism that will provide this functionality.
This presentation calls on IEEE u to comment on whether or not XML is considered a feasible solution.
If this is favourable then I would ask IEEE u if they would be interested in seeing a proposal on XML at the next meeting.
If the IEEE think XML is a way forward for service discovery I would be interested in assisting on making a collaborative effort for the March 2006 meeting.
Andrew Myers, BT