Managerial Perception of the FCC's Role in U.S. Television Digital Conversion

Brad E. Schultz, University of Mississippi Main Campus
Mary Lou Sheffer, University of Southern Mississippi

Abstract

As the final deadline for U.S. television stations to convert to digital televisions approached, this study sought to assess the conversion process from the perspective of television station managers. Specifically, it applied a theoretical model of telecommunications regulation to gauge their assessment of the FCC’s role in the process. Results indicated that managers believed the FCC performed poorly and they preferred free market development of the technology. However, regulation may prove more beneficial in the long term.