Office of Policy Analysis and Development

NTIA's Office of Policy Analysis and Development (OPAD) supports NTIA's role as principal adviser to the President, Vice President, and Secretary of Commerce on telecommunications and information policies.

OPAD's goal is to enhance the public interest by generating, articulating, and advocating creative and influential policies and programs in the telecommunications and information sectors that promote innovation, competition, consumer welfare, and economic and social opportunities for all, and that remove impediments to the growth and vitality of these sectors.

OPAD analyzes a wide range of issues affecting telecommunications and information. OPAD makes policy recommendations in such areas as media (e.g., radio, television, cable); wireless services and radio spectrum management; wireline competition; the Internet; domain names, and electronic commerce; new advanced broadband networks; and public interest issues related to telecommunications and information services.

Among other activities, OPAD researches issues, drafts letters and formal comments to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and prepares analysis and testimony regarding pending legislation. The office plans and conducts public roundtable discussions to facilitate discussion of telecommunications issues.

OPAD's role in the President's Initiative on Spectrum Policy is to implement recommendations regarding market-based spectrum incentives.