Research firm Gartner said changes in customer demand, a shifting competitive landscape and new regulatory policies would color carriers' behavior in 2009 and 2010, forcing them to innovate. Although Tier 1 operators have not yet released their first-quarter earnings or subscriber numbers, they are facing increased pressure from the likes of Boost Mobile, Leap Wireless, MetroPCS and Virgin Mobile USA, which have come out with unlimited plans that consumers may find attractive in a troubling economic environment. In order to stay ahead of the game, carriers must be innovative with their service offerings to improve value and ease-of-use, according to Gartner. Specifically, the firm suggested carriers consider outsourcing the management of their networks and working with third parties to spruce up their offerings and concentrate on customer relationships. Article