Research Questions
Topic One: Advertising, Two-Sided Markets and the Role of Network Operators (ISPs, MSOs)
Topic Two: Customer Equipment and Program Navigation Devices, Guides and Menus
Topic Three: Video Programming in a Digital World
Topic Four: The Future of Cable Networking and Infrastructure
Topic Five: The Future of Local Programming
Topic Six: Video Convergence and Internet Video
Topic Seven: Innovation in Broadband Networks, Network Design, and Network Management
Topic Five: The Future of Local Programming
The promotion of “localism” has long been a focus of communications policy in this country. As consumers migrate away from traditional media such as newspapers and broadcast television and radio, with many preferring to obtain news and information from the Internet, the effects of that transition remain subject to debate. Consumers undoubtedly have access to more information than ever before, allowing diverse voices to be heard as never before. But as traditional media encounter shrinking audiences and advertising bases, they will be challenged to deliver high-quality local content.
Questions
- How does the ongoing migration of locally oriented content from broadcast outlets and newspapers to the Internet and cable television affect public policy?
- Should government continue to devote resources to promoting localism, or will market forces adequately address that societal goal?
- Cable operators (in their role as video distributors and broadband providers) are becoming more important as producers and distributors of local content. Should government do anything to foster this important function?
- Are there regulatory barriers that stand in the way of delivering more local content, at least in the video arena?