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Conclusion


Notes:


In theory the use of Internet and web standards for MHP should provide opportunities for convergence. Using common tools to produce content that can be used on the Internet should be possible and with broadcasting. Material used to construct a web site could be streamed for a broadcast. However, the differences in business models and production techniques may make convergence infeasible. The major impediment to the use of MHP by Internet content producers may be the Internet-unfriendly way in which the standard has been provided. An indication of this is the distribution of MHP as one very large PDF file, with copyright restrictions on its use. Reading the standard is a cumbersome process and lowers its credibility as a guide to efficient electronic communication. This contrasts with successful Internet and web standards, available in Internet and web formats which are simple and quick to download, translate or copy. It should not be assumed that MHP will succeed because it is based on Internet standards and has the support of the broadcasting industry. Technical standards, such as WAP, have failed, despite (or perhaps because of) high level support and detailed standards documents. MHP has the potential for success if the standard is simplified, aligned with Internet development and made freely available. However, the technical details of MHP may prove less relevant to its success that identifying a business model for multimedia content. Do people really want extensive interactive services, or just sit back and watch TV? Integrated PC/TVs have not been marketing successes in the past. Very simple text message services have proved popular on mobile telephones whereas sophisticated WAP applications have not. This aspect of MHP needs further research.