Deregulating markets and fast-changing technology: Public policy towards telecommunications in a turbulent setting

Deregulation of the telecommunications industry is creating challenges for public policy that must be future-oriented yet socially responsible. This paper discusses theoretical and practical issues in designing public policy that balance competing and sometimes conflicting demands of consumer welfare, regional or national competitiveness and corporate efficiency. Using Rhode Island as a case study, selected research findings are used to supplement the discussion on ways in which public policy efforts are underway in various parts of the world.