New gTLDs SWOT Analysis: WEAKNESSES

This post follows part 1 of my SWOT analysis of the ICANN new gTLD program.

The SWOT analysis is a structured planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project: the ICANN new gTLD program in this case.

WEAKNESSES

• Delays in the program;
• Difficult to deal with, for new gTLD applicants;
• Groups and well represented communities will find it practically impossible to defend themselves from abusive standard applications;
• A nightmare for brands;
• Very expensive;
• Multiple versions of the initial methodology: the Applicant Guidebook;
• An International communication campaign?
• “IN ENGLISH ONLY”;
• Applicants will all market their domain names at the same time;
• The interest of end of the line users or new gTLD service providers?
• Acquiring a string representing a recognized Community is open to...anybody;
• Too many participants;
• Intended for new gTLD applicants and domain name service providers, not for end users;
• Same strings with exact same meaning can be considered differently in different languages;
• Transparency;
• It is the role of each brand to pay for its protection;
• ICANN is supposed to be an International organization;
• The Applicant Guidebook can be modified anytime;
• The RAA contract.

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