Publications

Broadband: Bringing Home the Bits This report examines the technologies, economics, policies, and strategies associated with broadband connectivity and makes recommendations aimed at fostering its deployment. The Computer Science and Telecommunications Board initiated this report in an effort to understand the hows and whys of broadband deployment and use. (November 2001)

Project Scope

Despite changes in regulatory policy and the emergence of new technology options, considerable uncertainty remains surrounding deployment of broadband to the home and progress has been slow. A study examining broadband local access issues would provide an exploration of possible scenarios and an analysis of the relationship between technology options, policy approaches, and business models. Such analysis would be valuable to those charged with setting policy, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is currently in the midst of implementing the Telecom Act of 1996, and facing considerable pressure and criticism, and state public utility commissions. The study would provide insights to Congress and others in evaluating the success of the Telecom Act of 1996 in fostering innovative, competitive services for local access. The study would also help consumers and public interest groups understand and evaluate current and future technology options. Given the uncertainty about which technologies, policy approaches, and business models are likely to prevail, industry stands to benefit from an objective analysis across these dimensions.

Committee Members