Article: An analysis of the economic benefits of broadband and IT by US Telecom advocating continued investment in the sector

[media law and policy] The economic benefits of broadband and information technology by Patrick S. Brogan

The author is Vice President of Industry Analysis at USTelecom, The Broadband Association. Mr. Brogan holds an M.P.P in Public Policy and a B.A. from Georgetown University in Washington, DC.

The purpose of this analysis is to illuminate the interdependence and competitiveness of the ICT industries, the growing impact of ICT on the broader economy, and the benefits of continued investment in this young, flourishing ecosystem.

The U.S. economy depends on the continued health of the ICT sector. Given the interdependence of ICT industries, the analysis that follows takes a holistic approach. It describes the economic impact of the full ICT sector, in relation to other sectors and in relation to the economy as a whole. The analysis begins with the contribution of ICT to economic output, or Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It then looks at growing investment in ICT and the use of ICT inputs across the economy. The analysis then explores the broader economic benefits of ICT, including the impact on consumer value and choice, jobs, and productivity.

The economic benefits of broadband and information technology SPRING 2009, 18 MEDIA L. & POL’Y 65