CenturyLink 2005 Annual Report Download - page 7

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We are a strong
advocate for regulatory
policies that:
1) encourage network
investment and
broadband deployment,
2) ensure the universal
availability of affordable
communications services
to customers in rural
areas and
3) create regulatory
parity among all
service providers.
broadband and other services. We believe
providing bundled services with a single
bill at a discounted price is a key element
in customer retention. As of the end
of 2005, 19.6 percent of our residential
customers had purchased a Simple
Choice™ product bundle from us.
Additionally, we have increased our
efforts to provide our business customers
with the latest in communications services
to help ensure the success of their
operations. For example, we recently
partnered with a large university to deploy
a next generation IP communication
solution. This partnership allowed the
university to make a smooth transition to
an IP-based platform, while reducing its
capital commitment.
We Are a Strong Advocate for
Sensible Regulatory Policies That
Promote Universal Service and
Broadband Deployment
The future of telecommunications
undoubtedly lies in broadband
deployment and the convergence of
services among various types of service
providers. Unfortunately, it is just as clear
that the regulatory environment has
simply not kept pace with technological
advancements and changes in the
competitive landscape.
Our positions on the principal
regulatory issues facing our industry are
straightforward. We are a strong
advocate for regulatory policies that:
1) encourage network investment and
broadband deployment, 2) ensure the
universal availability of affordable
communications services to customers in
rural areas and 3) create regulatory parity
among all service providers. We will
continue our advocacy in these areas, and
we are encouraged that rational policies
will result from these efforts.
We Enthusiastically
Look Toward Our Future
As we review the results of our efforts in
2005 and look ahead to 2006 and
beyond, there is much of which we can
be proud and even more to which we can
look forward. We are excited about the
potential of our broadband future and the
growth opportunities that technological
advancements will bring. We believe we
have the network, the employees, the
opportunities and the commitment to
grow our business in the years ahead.
Glen F. Post, III
Chairman and CEO