Hanrahan, Hu2016-02-282016-02-282001-12-15Hanrahan, H. (2001). Convergence, digitisation and new technologies: Towards the next generation network. The Southern African Journal of Information and Communication (SAJIC), 2. https://doi.org/10.23962/10539/19838ISSN 1607-2235 (print version)ISSN 2077-5040  (online version)http://hdl.handle.net/10539/19838https://doi.org/10.23962/10539/19838This paper introduces the concept of the Next Generation Network as the vision for convergence between the modern digital Public Switched Telecommunications Network and Internet Protocol Networks. The technological features of the NGN, as well as the business models that it facilitates, are described. Gateways to the PSTN are described. Migration of the PSTN to the NGN and further evolution of the NGN are outlined. The role of the NGN in providing universal service and universal access is outlined. An example of the use of NGN technologies to create next generation Telecentres is presented.enArticle