A research study ordered by the FCC has received a scathing appraisal by Phoenix Center Chief Economist George Ford. The study, prepared by Harvard’s Berkman Center for the Internet and Society, was commissioned by the FCC as an independent expert review of broadband deployment and usage throughout the world.

Dr. Ford could not hide his incredulity that the analysis used to support the study’s heavily pro-regulation conclusion is “embarrassingly bad.” From overlooking the role of government subsidies in other countries to virtually ignoring the primary role of private investment in U.S. broadband deployment, the study appears to take a highly selective view of the global broadband landscape today. This has led many to question the reliability of the analysis in crafting a successful National Broadband Plan.

Hopefully, we all support the Commission’s goal of ‘data-driven’ policymaking. We also agree that the Commission should be mindful of lessons learned by other countries. There’s no question the FCC will closely review the Berkman Center study. Here’s hoping they also read this essential companion piece that puts its findings in perspective.

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