What is a shared registry?

[Vince Wolodkin <wolodkin@digitalink.com>]

List members,

We all seem to view shared registries just a little bit differently so I
though I might try and put into words how I see them, and would invite
others to do the same:

I see the shared registry system as encompassing all domains.  If a
registry were granted license to share in one TLD it should be very
simple for them to become permitted for all domains.  I see in the
future a host of registries that are able to register customers in any
domain(including .com, but maybe not ISO domains).

I want it to be like supermarkets.  Everyone has access to the same
products, but you choose where to shop based on how much they markup the
items and the courtesy and responsiveness of the staff.  You also want
it to be close by(convenience).  I think this system sets up a level yet
competitive system for new registries.

I would think something like the following may be appropriate:

date 1)  New registries operable on new TLDs
date 2)  New registries operable on ALL TLDs

NSI would be precluded from the new TLDs for some time to allow the new
registries to become competitive.  Eventually, and after date 2, NSI
would be allowed to compete in the other TLD's.  Though I still think
NSI would make an ideal meta-registry, once stripped of their policy
making abilities.

Perhaps one way to proceed with shared registries is to accept proposals
where partnerships of 3 or more companies are allowed to start accepting
registrations in new TLDs.  These companies would be responsible for
helping to finish any necessary sharing protocols and an RFC would
eventually be generated from their work.  In trade, this group would(as
someone else suggested) have sole rights to the new TLDs for a period of
12 to 18 months.  The first batch of TLDs for them to work from should
be limited to 3 or 4(small number, so as to preserve profits for the
non-pioneers).

After 12 to 18 months, with an RFC in place, new registries can be
granted.  In fact, applications for new registries should probably be
accepted about 12 months in and be granted by the 18 month date.

Right now I can think of several groups that could consider banding
together and making something like this work.  You know who you are. 
This type of system would allow you to recoup monies you have already
spent in pursuit of exclusive TLDs.

Invitation to all to help me flesh this out.

Vince Wolodkin