Market Dynamics and Local Policy Choices for Converged Systems: Case Study of Integrated Telecommunication Design and Deployment

Researchers have cogently presented the technical case for converged telecommunications systems. However, it is not clear how market-based telecommunications providers and local communities are embracing this technical argument as they design and adopt new telecommunication systems. This paper uses a case study approach to examine market and policy dynamics influencing converged network deployment in a mixed commercial and residential environment. Specifically, the article presents the overall telecommunications design and then analyzes several implementation alternatives proposed for a major urban redevelopment project in the greater Denver metropolitan area. These alternatives range from more traditional telecommunications solutions to fully converged networks. Based on this review, the paper analyzes the role of a layered policy approach to telecommunications regulation at the local level and how interoperability serves as a mediating condition before market convergence is achieved. Finally, the paper addresses public policy implications for encouraging adoption of fiber-IP based networks as well as research directions for assessing metropolitan adoption of converged systems. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]