Future scenarios, ecosystems and business models for cognitive radio systems

The introduction of cognitive radio techniques into wireless mobile communica-tions systems has potential to change their operations in a number of ways, most notably in terms of the way they access the radio spectrum. In fact, the whole business ecosystem could be affected by the advent of cognitive radio systems (CRS). Recent developments in the mobile communication systems and spectrum regulatory frameworks are paving the way to shared use of the spectrum in an attempt to fulfil the growing future traffic demand. Spectrum sharing using CRS can become an alternative way to provide access to new the spectrum in addition to the costly and time-consuming "re-farming" of spectrum bands where a band is cleared of its previous usage. This publication focuses on the business aspects of those systems and aims to understand the potential effects of their emergence from a business perspective. Key findings from the literature in terms of the technological and business context of cognitive radio systems are summarized. Furthermore, the theoretical framework of business scenarios, business models, and business ecosystems is explained. Specific scenarios, business models and business ecosystems suggested for cognitive radio systems following four workshops are presented. First the key actors within the cognitive radio systems business/value chain were identified along with their needs and the benefits of cognitive technology. Scenarios were then created for the future cognitive business environment together with an analysis of the drivers, limitations and challenges of the different scenarios. Initial attempts to develop business models for selected actors in selected scenarios are also presented.