Generic reference model for the analysis of relevant communications markets: fundamental competition concepts

Abstract

Under the new European regulatory communications framework coming into effect in summer 2003, market analyses will be subject to a different and much wider analytical scope. Whereas traditional market analysis has been primarily based on critical market share values, the relevant articles of the framework directive explicitly call for a more holistic and economically based perspective in carrying out competition analyses in predefined communications markets. This article discusses institutional aspects and provides an organizational framework for conducting market analyses that is applicable to all relevant communication markets. The resulting reference model is shown to be embedded in traditional competition concepts.