Proposed by: Thomas Vollrath, GX Networks Ltd.
Seconded by: Paul Fallon, Total Web Solutions Ltd.
My View of Nominet
Nominet holds a unique position as the guardian of the .uk namespace. I see it as a company owned by its members; as a key supplier to the internet community; and as a vital national resource. I deal with Nominet on behalf of clients on a day-to-day basis. My general experience of the staff at Nominet is that they are highly skilled and dedicated people who do a very good job. It is a well run registry. These are my views on what I see as key strategic issues.
Cost Neutrality
I strongly support Nominet’s not-for-profit status and the objective of cost neutrality in the provision of its services. I am not comfortable with the current annual surplus. In particular, the cost of registration is higher than required to break even.
Before any further decisions are made regarding what to do with the accruing surplus, I think a Board committee should be set up and give top priority to reviewing the various options available. Nothing should be off the agenda – including looking at how to reduce the level of the surplus, price cuts, refunds to registrars/registrants and the Foundation. The best independent advice should be sought. Proposals should then be put formally to the membership, with reasons given for the Board’s recommended choice.
The Nominet Foundation
The Foundation is an excellent and worthwhile cause. It should also assist in improving the general profile that Nominet enjoys. However, no decisions regarding further donations should be made until a full “surplus review” has been completed.
The DRS
Nominet should actively consider putting the DRS at arm’s length and outsource the operational side of it to someone like WIPO.
Governance
Nominet’s unique role means that I believe that it must remain a member driven organisation. Stability and accountability are essential. I believe that “The Combined Code” of corporate governance needs to be reviewed and to a large extent embraced. Relating to matters before this AGM, all directors need to be subject to peer review and re-election.
I believe Special Resolution 6 should not be adopted. In due course, I suggest a wider ranging Resolution (in line with best practice found in The Combined Code) should be recommended to members. Nominet should consider volunteering to be subject to the Freedom of Information Act. Nominet should review its internal complaints procedure and look at putting in place an independent ombudsman to deal with complaints.
Contact
These 500 words are just a summary of my views on Nominet. I invite you to find out more about my opinions and why I think I have something to offer as a non-executive director at my website – www.jimdavies.me.uk – or email jim@jimdavies.me.uk – or Skype jim.davies2 – or telephone 01843 609355. I am always happy to talk!
