In a recent article for Panorama, the monthly publication of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, Dr. McNally highlighted some key points of development in the evolution of the Internet:

• Unlike traditional communications networks such as a telephone network or radio network that had operated within a single service mode, the Internet forged a new alliance between computing and communications using a single digitized communication system that could be used by a wide variety of specialized applications. The possibilities were endless.
   
• Although the origins of the Internet can be traced back to late 1950's with the formation the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), it was only in 1991 that the first commercial Internet Services outside Government and Education became available. The early IAP (Internet Access Provider) evolved into the ISP during this period and very quickly became part of an aggressively expanding market.
   
• From this point the move to the commercial Internet was remarkably swift with the number of users on the Internet doubling in size every 8 to 12 months. The rapid expansion of the Internet produced a vibrant ISP retail market that was aggressively open. This expansive phase lasted from 1994 - 1999 in which tens of thousands of ISPs operated in a rapidly expanding market.
   
• At the peak of this development there was nearly one ISP for every 6000 users. As the number of ISPs increased, the economies of scale also came into play. Internet access became more a market commodity under prolonged price pressure. When growth slowed, a new wave of competitive pressures caused the collapse of poorly structured ISPs resulting in a market shakeout. To survive, ISP's had to focus on value added service features. Those who made this transition were able to assimilate new technologies, offer new services, and remain viable.

McNally vividly recalls the stages of evolution NetAccess experienced to become a full Internet Service Provider. "One of the keys to success for NetAccess," he stresses, "continues to be its client-centred focus. Technology is great, but what really matters is how clients can make use of this technology to improve their business." NetAccess actively works with every client to make the Internet a productive business tool. Another notable strength of the company has been its success in attracting experienced business leaders to its board of directors. Prominent businessman Dr. Douglas Barber, former President and CEO of Gennum Corp, is only one of a group of notable leaders who lend their expertise and insight to the NetAccess business plan. Through regular board meetings and strategic planning sessions, these professionals have helped NetAccess achieve steady success in a very turbulent industry.

As the first ISP in Hamilton, NetAccess has grown to develop an enviable reputation in the market. It has remained vibrant and profitable despite recent declines in the Internet industry.