Online Public File for TV Launches and Stations Need to Adapt

On August 2, the much anticipated Online Public Inspection File for television stations launched more or less successfully. To complete the task in the short time given them, the Federal Communications Commission staff put forth an Olympic effect, and while they were subject to some point deductions for a few stumbles in the regulatory gymnastics involved, they largely "stuck the dismount" as the system went live. To its credit, the FCC clearly listened to the many voicemails and emails sent to FCC staff, as well as the comments and questions raised during the FCC's online demonstrations prior to launch. Some potentially nasty pitfalls for stations were ironed out via the FAQs, and the system will hopefully continue to be refined in the weeks and months ahead. In the meantime, here is what stations need to do now that the system is operational.