New regional community creation through videobased information networks - a case study of regional vitalization through the promotion of information technology in Japan

摘要

Against the backdrop of recent developments in multimedia and information technology (IT), video-based information networks being constructed on a platform chiefly composed of the two core technologies of video terminals and ISDN are gaining worldwide recognition through the deployment of videophones, videoconferencing systems, and digital network ISDN technology. New forms of virtual community based on interactive, virtual communication continue to be fashioned, particularly in relation to the promotion of IT in regions of Japan. This paper points out that in the future, video-based information networks will be an important platform for creating new regional-level virtual communities to further regional invigora-tion.