State of the Net 2014

The relative standing of high-speed communications networks in the United States is a subject of periodic debate. Various organizations rank countries' network speeds, and some find America's standing wanting. The debate typically unfolds from this point with some disputing the metrics used to develop rankings, others saying international comparisons really are not "apples to apples" across countries, while others say America's ranking is call for alarm and policy intervention. This panel will examine what the speed numbers what they mean and how, if at all, policymakers should respond to them. The panel will also explore what other metrics policymakers and consumers need to inform their decisions. If a transparent broadband marketplace is to help in the development of a sensible policy framework, what needs to be done so that information about networks and service attributes are clear and meaningful to all stakeholders?