In our preparation for tomorrow's public forum topic on gTLD Implementation issues, here's the BC's existing position on batching: See below and on Page 3 of the document at http://www.bizconst.org/Positions-Statements/BC+on+Final+App+Guidebook+May+2... As to the composition of the first batch, the BC recommends that it include a substantial proportion of community-based applications. It is a long-standing position of the BC that name space expansion should create added-value. Where there is added-value there will be genuine user demand – not just defensive registrations—and expansion will enhance choice and competition in the global public interest. In a global market economy, added-value means differentiation from other gTLDs while providing competition for existing gTLDs.