Roger K. Salaman and E. C. Hettinger

Abstract: Today, three–quarters of the U.S. employment and one–half of the Gross National Product (GNP) are associated with services. In 1981, services employment predominated, for the first time, over both agriculture and manufacturing, even in the Third World countries. The increasing importance of services to the economy and the society has been stimulated by the greater availability of information and communications products. This report presents the initial analysis of a project devoted to formulation of national information policy as necessary to accommodate the new opportunities presented by advanced information technologies, and the impact on the economy ,and society. After defining the meaning of information policy, the report discusses current issues concerning domestic industry growth, maintaining international leadership, and new considerations regarding intellectual property.

Keywords: economic development; education; information policy; intellectual property; international trade; research and development; services economy; telecommunications policy

Disclaimer: Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.

For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.

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