tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563539329592161652.post8692243963006545032..comments2024-03-21T10:12:22.611-04:00Comments on Courier, Express, and Postal Observer: Unbundling Postal PricesAlan Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18015201735147037122noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563539329592161652.post-71970939823658998222011-02-05T14:00:35.158-05:002011-02-05T14:00:35.158-05:00Nice analysis of a complex problem. One of the gre...Nice analysis of a complex problem. One of the greatest impediments to ensuring the future of the Postal Service is the navigation of its Byzantine rate and measurement systems.<br />Much of the rationale underlying the current approach is based on the first class letter monopoly. I think it's fair to say that there wouldn't be a rush of competitors to deliver mail door to door if the monopoly were rescinded.<br />The mailbox monopoly is more problematic since it deals with access and security issues although in many places competing delivery outfits could easily add to the current mailbox.<br />The point is that much of how we view pricing is tied to our understanding of the supposed monopoly privileges granted to the Postal Service in exchange for the responsibilities of universal service.<br />Perhaps it's time to view universal service as a driver of infrastructure development and base pricing solely on network utilization.William Tyndalenoreply@blogger.com