role that governments and regulators can play in shaping the interop landscape. Finally, the chapter concludes by identifying some of the biggest questions and challenges for interoperability among future technologies.Chapter 5: M-services and applications: Perspectives on regulatory measures to foster difusion and access Mobile services and applications are playing a prominent role within the broader digital ecosystem to unlock economic opportunities and provide critical services to citizens. As consumer demands are placed on them, disruptive technologies and innovation are bringing about new possibilities for the future. Governments, regulators, consumers and indeed the world are only beginning to understand the true development potential of mobile services and applications. A few truths are emerging. First, the old telecommunication “rules of engagement” may not stand the test of time, and some aspects of regulations may need to be re-written to address the changing environment. There is a need to depart from rigid rules and to adopt a “light-touch” approach in order for the regulatory framework to be more responsive to the innovative ecosystem of m-services and apps. The regulatory scope of competition, universal service, resource allocation, interoperability and standards (among others) needs to be reviewed.Second, sector regulators have been thrust into a multi- sectoral space, due to the cross-cuting nature of disruptive innovation. This has broadened their domain and capacity to influence regulation and policy across sectors. But regulators must reach out and collaborate proactively, not just reactively, going forward. In addition, the multi-sectoral entry has brought in new stakeholders, which the sector regulator needs to identify and engage in order to leverage for mutual benefit. Third, a flexible, transparent approach that promotes competition will allow innovation to thrive and provide incentives for investment and, ultimately, consumer benefit. Greater consideration is, therefore, required in the development of regulatory frameworks that will govern the growth of the digital ecosystem in order to ensure that it continues to surprise the world and stretch the imagination with new ideas and innovations.For this to happen, the regulator needs to adopt a delicate balance. It has long been recognized that regulation can have an impact on innovation, both positively and negatively. Regulators need an awareness to foster the inter-dependencies necessary to enable the digital ecosystem to evolve into a healthy environment. But they also have to deter and punish discordant players for rule violations. This balance requires a resolute approach and stakeholder support. Otherwise, innovation can tend to take a backseat when straddled by complex issues and uncertain rules.This chapter seeks to explore regulatory perspectives that can be considered in facilitating xiv Trends in Telecommunication Reform 2016 Figure 4.0: Overview Diagram of interop INTEROP TECHNOLOGICAL DATA INSTITUTIONAL HUMAN Hardware and code that allows connection Efective engagement of societal systems Ability of interconnected systems to understand each other Ability to understand and act on data exchange Source: ITU