Developments in spectrum management for communication services
Spectrum is a limited national resource that enables our digital world. Mobile broadband
services rely on these invisible airwaves to function, making spectrum indispensable
to bridge connectivity divides. It also supports the provision of wireless services
across the economy, from education to healthcare to industry, and enables applications
such as satellites, GPS and the Internet of Things. Spectrum must be efficiently managed
to achieve broader social and economic goals. As such, the stakes of spectrum management
decisions are high and the challenges complex. This report discusses the effective
stewardship of this essential asset in the context of wireless communication services,
presents trends in policy, and discusses future considerations for management. It
finds that well-designed and transparent licensing regimes, including auctions, foster
investment and innovation, and that flexible frameworks (e.g. sharing or unlicensed
spectrum) can promote efficient use.
Published on October 20, 2022
In series:OECD Digital Economy Papersview more titles