The PACCIT broadband project

The broadband project researched new practices and possibilities that emerge with second generation broadband and server streamed television. It combined ethnography with a theory/practice. In coalition with three industrial partners we produced and distributed an interactive, cross-platform show, and researched its usage. We created a type of laboratory. It comprised not only practical research, but also three strands of academic enquiry:

(1) We followed the biography of the product and the project network. We were especially interested in the negotiation of visions, concepts, time plans, contracts and the creative leadership. This research strand was conducted with deeply participating observation and led to an analysis of enthusiasm.

(2) We conducted a one-year long ethnography of the use of broadband media in 21 London-based households. The household research included the usage of the show that we produced, but extended its themes beyond this. An experimental ethnography led to a description of ‘Unbundled television’.

(3) We held expert interviews and organized expert encounters in the UK, Japan, South Korea (the world’s most advanced broadband infrastructure), and China. The expert interviews led us to think about streaming media and the social imaginary.

The academic research team consisted of Scott Lash (Principal investigator), Celia Lury , Andreas Wittel, and Goetz Bachmann (Research Associate). The project lasted from August 2003-July 2006.

More information on the project
Contact : Email g.bachmann@gold.ac.uk
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