"We are all products of our environment and prisoners of our experience." At least, this is what my father tells me whenever we disagree.

I have found no reports of service disruption or degradation associated with the WorldCom bankruptcy or revival as MCI. There may have been problems with meeting new implementations that required new carrier infrastructure, at least until the bankruptcy issues were resolved, but again I have not found any reports of this.

With this in mind, my advice to McLeod USA customers stands. Reacting in panic to what might happen is a poor strategy that will likely result in higher communications costs, self inflicted service disruptions, and extra work for either internal staff or contract labor. A sudden termination of existing service is highly unlikely regardless of what happens to McLeod USA as an enterprise.

If the customer is looking at new services or major changes with their network independent of carrier issues, then a careful review of carrier capabilities is in order before any automatic award to McLeod USA.

Now for those looking to work for or invest in McLeod USA, Cameron offers some excellent advise based on his personal experiences.

Private Reply to Ken Hilving (new win)