Barbara E. Thompson
The Multimedia Telecommunications Association (mmta) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA--Arlington, VA) have signed a memorandum of understanding to "affiliate with the intent to merge within the next 12 months." As an affiliate, mmta will continue to operate as an independent trade association and will relocate to TIA`s headquarters.
"The mmta`s focus on computer telephony integration and businesses in the communications and computing delivery channel, coupled with TIA`s proven strengths in public policy, technical standards, and export development, will enable both associations to assist members in expanding their markets for new telecommunications multimedia solutions and applications," states William R. Moroney, mmta president and chief executive.
Matthew Flanigan, TIA president, adds, "The affiliation between TIA and mmta reflects the convergence of communications and computing technologies taking place in the industry today. The TIA and mmta have had a close working relationship in the past, and an affiliation is a logical progression. We look forward to working with mmta to develop services and products to benefit our membership and the industry."
Founded in 1970 as the North American Telephone Association, the mmta has played a key role in supporting the development of global markets to deliver new technology-based solutions to the business community. According to the association, the mmta and its 450 members are committed to supporting the convergence of communications and computing technologies as a global public policy, technical interoperability, and market development forum for manufacturers, distributors, integrators, software developers, value-added resellers, and corporate users.
The TIA is a trade organization of 600 companies that provides communications and information technology products, materials, systems, distribution services, and professional services. The TIA represents the telecommunications industry in association with the Electronic Industries Association (Arlington, VA).