The purpose of this paper is to examine how spectrum policy can support the changing objectives of universal service in communications services.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine how spectrum policy can support the changing objectives of universal service in communications services.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper presents a review of current universal service obligations, analysis of how they will change, and identification of spectrum policy responses.
Findings
The study reveals that, in future, universal service will be delivered in a technologically neutral way; this will require a re‐appraisal of the way it is provided and the development of spectrum management techniques to ensure that it is provided efficiently.
Practical implications
The paper contains advice to European and other regulators about medium‐term universal service policy.
Originality/value
The paper explores the linkage between two previously separated areas of research.
Details
Keywords
Claudio Feijoo and Claire Milne
The purpose of this paper is to introduce to the concepts related with universal service and the papers in the special issue about “Re‐thinking universal service in the digital…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce to the concepts related with universal service and the papers in the special issue about “Re‐thinking universal service in the digital era”.
Design/methodology/approach
This special issue aims to provide support to the policy process with regard to universal service in a digital context. The papers in the issue highlight developments that are shaking up the current universal service model. They consider universal service from a set of different dimensions, encompassing both demand and supply side considerations. Also a comparative outlook draws lessons from a representative set of existing regulatory models.
Findings
The paper finds that the foundations and concept of universal service are experiencing a profound transformation as we enter into a new phase of information society development. A new set of policy goals and tools is the main consequence of this change.
Originality/value
The paper presents a timely account of the universal service policy debate.