In 1986 the General Assembly of the state of Iowa decided that it was important to develop statewide plans for educational telecommunications systems use among universities, community colleges, and secondary schools. The Iowa plan was developed by: (1) defining the basics of the telecommunications systems under consideration; (2) determining whether educational needs existed that could be met by a telecommunications system; (3) establishing an organization that would develop a system; and (4) examining the relationships between interest groups with the intention of fostering cooperation. Central in importance to the Iowa Plan was the evaluation of existing relationships between different levels of education, business and industry, public television and other telecommunications industries, and state and federal governments. It was concluded that, for the future success of an educational telecommunication system, changes must be made in current relationships, and new relationships, partnerships, and alliances must be formed that will enhance the development and implementation of a telecommunications infrastructure. (DB)