Social and spatial ubiquity of information and communication technology: a policy perspective

In this paper, we analyze some fundamental impacts of the process of informatization. In particular, we address socio-economic and spatial impacts and discuss possible consequences for policy. Our objective is to discuss issues concerning the desirability, necessity and possibility of government responses to the process of informatization. After a general introduction, we turn to a more detailed discussion of three highly relevant areas for policy: market structures, urban networks and media use. Finally we discuss the options for policy, as well as the need to regulate the informatization process