FCC launches Reboot Web site for interaction

The Federal Communications Commission has launched a new Web site, Reboot.FCC.gov, to stimulate interaction with the public.

The FCC on Jan. 7 debuted the Reboot site, which has an official FCC blog, videos and a forum for comments.

The subjects posted for discussion including data availability and accessibility. The FCC also has established the FCC.gov/data online clearinghouse for the commission’s public data, and is seeking comments on how to increase transparency and oversight.

Other four key topics for discussion on the site are FCC engagement with the public, redesign of the FCC.gov Web site, transformation of FCC systems and modernization of the commission's rules and processes, according to an FCC news release.

The FCC is in the process of overhauling several of its systems, including the Electronic Comment Filing System, and is creating a consolidated licensing system. The Reboot aims to provide a forum where the public can comment on those efforts.

The FCC also wants input on how to improve the quality of decision-making, reduce backlogs, and enhance the public's ability to understand and participate in commission proceedings.

The site is the latest of several programs intended to boost transparency and accountability. However, critics have been skeptical of some of the new developments in the light of the shortcomings in longstanding FCC systems, such as the Electronic Comment Filing System.