in another thread someone mentioned that they are only getting a "data plan" and not a "BB plan"

what is the difference? what is offered on a "BB plan" and would not be available on a "data plan"

Wirelessly posted (BlackBerry8700/4.2.1 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/100)

BB plan runs thru secure servers and allows you a safe and secure environment for email! Some have had success with nonBB data plans but you also run the risk of being charged for that data usage.

Most companies have teams that sweep accounts making sure that features match the device being used. ATT is going to implement a system that only certain features can be applied to an acct based on the device hence if you have a BB you won't be able to get a medianet plan!

With a BB plan you know you will have email and internet without there are no guarantees

A BlackBerry Data Plan offers push e-mail services, either via the BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES), a corporate-type solution, or through the BlackBerry Internet Service (BIS), which collected e-mail from up to 10 e-mail accounts and push them to the BB. Without the BB Data Plan, you have limited Internet connectivity and no push e-mail.