ICT Regulation Toolkit / 4. Universal Access and Service
The concept of Universal Access and Service (UAS) has been evolving in recent years, primarily due to the growth of the internet and the mobile phone, in combination with market liberalization and explosive demand in the developing world. This Module introduces the concept, and explores a number of topics, such as marketing mechanisms and financial analysis. Availability, accessibility, and affordability are discussed throughout as fundamental requirements of universal service.
Chapter 1 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) This module explores key aspects of universal access and service (UAS) for information and communication technologies (ICTs). The value and importance of ICTs cuts across all other sectors of the economy. Learn more...
Universal access and service (UAS) is achieved through a combination of sector reform, dedicated financing instruments and additional measures that stimulate market expansion into rural and remote areas. This chapter explores the role of sector reform in achieving UAS. Learn more...
Chapter 3 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) Chapter 3 summarizes the main approaches that policy makers and regulators use towards achieving universal access and service (UAS) targets. In Section 3. Learn more...
Chapter 4 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) This chapter addresses all aspects and considerations related to developing a universal access and service (UAS) policy. It is intended as a practical guide to the various steps that need to be taken in the process of policy formulation. Learn more...
Chapter 5 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) This chapter addresses issues related to the financing of universal access and service (UAS) and of related ICT infrastructure and service development. As explained in Chapter 3 , prior to the onset of market liberalization, the traditional or administrative approach to meeting UAS objectives was to place certain universal service obligations (USOs) onto the dominant incumbent operator. Learn more...
Chapter 6 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) This chapter presents and discusses some of the main steps to develop a universal access and service (UAS) programme, including an ICT sector review, demand analysis, subsidy estimation, and also a discussion on measuring economic impact and benefits and how this may help to prioritize programme components and individual projects. Section 6. Learn more...
Chapter 7 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) This chapter describes the key tender design considerations and the protocol for holding a competitive tender to allocate subsidies to a winning operator or service provider in exchange for universal access and service (UAS) provision. This process, which is almost always used in conjunction with a Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF), can also be used by international or national donors, or industry regulators, using government or other sources outside of UASFs, to supply subsidies or grants. Learn more...
Chapter 8 translations Version française (PDF) Versión Española (PDF) Developments in technology affect the cost, acceptability and feasibility of services and have a direct impact on universal access and service (UAS). Because technological developments influence regulators’ expectations and users’ technology preferences, minimum requirements for and expectations of UAS increase over time. Learn more...
Executive Summary (December 2008)
Full Module 4
French (June 2009)
Spanish (June 2009)
Table of Contents
1. Overview
2. Competition & Price
3. Authorization of Services
4. Universal Access & Service
5. Radio Spectrum Management
6. Legal & Institutional Framework
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