After careful analysis of public comment and possible solutions for processing new gTLD applications, ICANN is proposing a plan for prioritizing applications through the steps leading to delegation. The plan describes assignment of priorities through the use of a Draw or Drawing – the priority assigned to each application will be used to schedule the release of initial evaluation results, pre-delegation testing, and contract execution. The proposal seeks to complete processing in an expedited manner, serve the public interest and provide an equitable prioritization mechanism.
The proposed plan is posted for a 30-day comment period.
The plan is posted at http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/batching/drawing-prioritization-10oct12-en.pdf [PDF, 524 KB].
The comment forum is at http://www.icann.org/en/news/public-comment/drawing-prioritization-10oct12-en.htm.