Question 7/III - Tariff principles and accounting arrangements for
public data communication services on public packet-switched networks
(continuation of Questions 7/III and 10/III studied in 1985-1988)

(To be studied in liaison with Study Groups I and VII.)

Reasons for the study

A continuous review of the provisions of Recommendations D.11 and D.12
is required, in the light of experience and new developments in
telecommunications, as regards the tariff principles for packet-switched
services utilizing the virtual circuit facility and other possible
packet- switched applications.

In addition, a continuation of the work which commenced in the 1985-
1988 study period towards development charging principles which would
promote usage of public packet-switched data networks is required.

1) Tariff principles for public data communication services on public
packet-switched networks.

Particular attention should be given to the following items:

a) determination of the chargeable and non-chargeable packets for
international packet-switched data communication service;

b) consideration of the segment length as the measurement unit for
charging for the volume of information transmitted;

c) tariff principles covering facilities such as direct call and fast
select;

d) tariff principles associated with reverse charging;

e) international accounting and especially a possible restructuring of
accounting rates in order to account duly for the volume of information
transmitted;

f) the introduction of a cost-based fixed transit rate;

g) the work of Questions concerning ISDN pertaining to public packet-
switched data networks;

h) the development of tariff principles for the permanent virtual
circuit should arise sufficient demand for this service.

2) Accounting arrangements to promote the use of public packet- switched
data networks.

Particular attention should be given to the following items:

a) Short transaction transmissions -

Work should continue on the development of tariff principles for the
possible use of the fast select with restriction option as a means of
providing short duration calls on the public packet-switched data
networks.

b) Batch mode transmissions -

Further study is required concerning the desirability of promoting batch
mode transmission on public packet-switched networks and the accounting
arrangements which would accomplish this (volume discounts vs. distinct
time and volume accounting and collection rates).