Viewpoints
Some considerations simply shouldn’t be overlooked to ensure a high-speed fiber project supports a community’s goals.
By: Kevin McGuire, VP of Broadband Policy, Great Plains Communications
High-speed fiber internet is the keystone of our digital world, connecting communities everywhere with unlimited opportunities through online access to work, education, healthcare, streaming services and more.
As rural and underserved communities look to implement high-speed broadband, there are need-to-know considerations that shouldn’t be overlooked to ensure a fiber project supports a community’s goals.
Based on my experience in broadband policy and the telecom industry, including more than 10 years on my local Indiana Economic Development Council, here are some strategies and best practices local governments and stakeholders should consider, not only before the initial broadband build-out begins, but also when planning for future infrastructure and technology needs.
Successful broadband projects start long before construction begins
I cannot stress this enough. Maintain good communication throughout the entire process, from planning
to construction to service.
Each community has both common needs and unique needs and expectations. Providers may have a standard set of processes, yet it’s important to understand the needs of the community and adapt to meet the unique needs of each community.
Broadband-driven services are vital to and empower communities regardless of their location, lifestyle or industry. E-commerce opportunities powered by fiber internet provides nationwide, and even global opportunities for businesses.
Working from home, online learning, and remote telehealth are needs that resonate for all residential customers, regardless of where they live. In more rural areas, fiber internet enables precision agriculture, helping farmers and ranchers increase productivity and streamline
operations. And, when fiber is deployed, it opens a community to growth by attracting new residents and businesses, bringing longevity and job opportunities.
Open communication
From the beginning, it’s essential that providers help a community understand what reliable, high-speed fiber-driven technology can offer.
Establish an open dialogue throughout the broadband build-out process so community members feel comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns. A company point person should also be available to address and inform community leaders, homeowners, and businesses.
“Are you going underground or aerial?” … “Will the construction process ruin my grass?” … “How long will it take?”
Disruption goes with construction; anticipate and plan accordingly
Any construction, including building a broadband network, can be disruptive. Communicate with local utility companies to get access
needed and ensure the community is notified in writing prior to construction onset. In that notice, include how to get in touch with the company to address any questions or construction issues. Consider producing a video explaining the fiber construction process to help potential customers understand what’s involved.
Become a community partner
Becoming a long-term technology partner, versus building a fiber network and exiting the community, should be the goal to emphasize commitment beyond the build.
A good broadband provider not only offers customers great services for great value but also helps the community thrive and grow. First and foremost, having local technicians and employees who live and work in the community is vital to being a true technology partner who is a part of the community.
Consider sponsoring the causes and events that are important to a community.
Perhaps college scholarships and grant opportunities for educators can help to improve local curriculum and offer new classroom programs. Other options to consider include sponsoring a networking night event for local businesses, or a golf event to engage and network with homeowners and businesses to learn more about what drives each community.
Beyond the initial build: Long-term sustainability of broadband infrastructure
One thing I’ve learned is that network infrastructure projects are never done. Technologies advance and must be constantly evaluated and upgraded. Cultivating strong and ongoing relationships with government, municipalities, and businesses help align the ongoing broadband infrastructure projects with the community’s economic development goals.
Avoid assumptions, communicate well, and work with trusted community partners who are committed to long-term success.
Establish a technical support system
If a customer can’t connect their new iPad to their network, be prepared to help them. Or, if a local business may have heard about unified communications and has questions, respond with answers quickly. The partnership with the community doesn’t end when the fiber build ends. Providers must be there every day to support the community. A local call center has a unique perspective that comes from being part of a community, which enables a better personalized experience for customers.
Choose infrastructure that’s future-ready
Different technologies have varying lifecycles and upgrade potential, which makes the initial technology choice important for the long term.
Fiber infrastructure must be ready to meet the needs of the community today but must also position the community to keep pace with technology to help enable ongoing community growth.
The correct fiber broadband infrastructure is a smart investment for today and for tomorrow. After all, a broadband company is only successful if the communities they serve are thriving. A good provider does not build the network. They enter as a technology partner to the community and continue to nurture the partnership for years to come.
Broadband is not just about faster internet. It’s about creating the conditions for economic resilience, growth, and opportunity.
When aligned with community goals and built on strong partnerships, fiber broadband will drive success.
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