Steven Barnett, Professor of Communications at the University of Westminster, has offered expert advice as a member of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) Future of TV Distribution Audience working group.
The Future of TV Distribution panel was set up by the DCMS as an opportunity for stakeholders – including broadcasters, internet service providers, manufacturers and civil society groups – to examine the feasibility of moving from traditional broadcast television to television distributed entirely via broadband internet (Internet Protocol Television or IPTV).
The panel assessed multiple factors including the technological, economic and social implications of switchover, as well as factors involved in upgrading the existing broadcast infrastructure. Although such a distribution shift would not happen until the mid-2030s at the earliest, the government is expected to make a decision within the next two years in order to minimise uncertainty.
Professor Barnett said: “We have been used to receiving broadcast signals via terrestrial transmitters for over 100 years, but many TV viewers are now moving to on-demand viewing via the internet. This raises a number of long-term questions about distribution, and the DCMS panel provided a fascinating opportunity to assess the different options and their implications.”
Professor Barnett’s contribution to the working group directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about Media and Communication courses at the University of Westminster.
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