dtv2009

while at the gym last week, i saw a commercial for the digital tv transition that is going to occur in february 2009. and again, while watching some good quality reality tv over the weekend, there were several more commercials and even text scrolling at the top of the tv screen about the digital tv initiative for 2009. both were directing the public to dtv2009.gov.

according to http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23456326/ - "The changeover has members of Congress and the FCC worried that irate viewers with no picture will direct their anger at Washington." in fact, my own father had been very vocal about the money he would have to shell out for converter boxes for this transition - until one of my best friends (with family in the cable business) corrected him. here's a example of a consumer who needed a bit more education in this arena (as well as myself, i have to admit.)

here's an example where the government needs to (and has been working to) create consumer awareness using a variety of eLearning type formats. see below:

• Presents statistics about how consumer awareness has increased since 2006. www.apts.org/news/govfailinggrade.cfm
  
  
• "Our survey results show the joint educational efforts of government and the private sector are working, and the digital television transition will be a success. CEA's research revealed that the top sources consumers are using to learn about the transition include television (72%), family and friends (39%) and the Internet (26%)." This article also presents the very components of their plans, and the media being utilized to educate on this analog-digital transition. reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS168548+07-Feb-2008+BW20080207
  
  
• This article argues that consumers are not as aware of all the details as the government statistics reveal. One example given to back up the statement includes the fact many consumers believe they need to go out and buy new HDTVs at this financially tigher-type time. businessweek.com/technology/content/jan2008/tc20080128_135558_page_2.htm
  
  
• The following article outlines the awareness plan that will be implemented throughout 2008. From broadcasting promotions in both English & Spanish, to providing specific steps consumers are to take to prepare for this transition. - www.pbs.org/aboutpbs/news/20080225_dtvtransition.html