Wireless Comparative Analysis and Best Practices Education Project

Community Partners, the California Community Technology Policy Group (CCTPG), the Broadband Institute of California (BBIC), and the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF) are implementing an aggressive program to identify and highlight lessons-learned and promising practices in government-led wireless networks, with a special emphasis on Digital Inclusion. The lessons-learned and promising practices will be available to community leaders, industry representatives, and government officials for their use as they consider, develop, and implement the most effective, inclusive, and sustainable wireless networks.

Broadband is critical for full participation and opportunity in the civic and economic life of our society. Broadband, including wireless networks, can not only expand Internet connectivity to underserved communities, but are also valuable in improving the functions of business, government, and civil society. Within this context, many cities and counties have decided to implement or sponsor wireless networks in their jurisdictions. This strategy is relatively new and has faced many questions. Consequently, this project attempts to learn more about government-led wireless networks throughout California.

Phase One of the project focuses on researching key components of government-led wireless networks, such as their objectives, business and finance plans, network structure, technology choice, Digital Inclusion, and others. This phase culminates in a final report that includes the following components:

· A comprehensive literature review of recent articles on broadband and government-led wireless projects.

· A review of wireless regulations to identify incentives and barriers that might support or constrain wireless implementation.

· An online survey of cities and counties in California on the role of wireless networks in their broadband deployment strategies.

· A comparative analysis of 25 case studies of government-led wireless projects.

· An overall analysis that will highlight lessons-learned and promising practices.

During Phase One, the Partners are engaging a Panel of Expert Advisors in order to advise and inform the research process and provide feedback on the various components of the final report. The Advisors reflect a depth of experience across subjects, such as Digital Inclusion, municipal networks and contracts, wireless technology, public safety, special needs of people with disabilities, and policy. In addition, the Partners are coordinating a series of meetings, teleconferences and videoconferences with stakeholders from three key sectors involved in government-led wireless networks: community, government, and industry. Through these events, stakeholders are also able to provide their feedback on the project research, as well as various components of the final report.

The work in Phase Two will broadly disseminate the project research, lessons-learned, and identified promising practices. With such tools at hand, communities will be better able to develop wireless networks that are effective, inclusive, and sustainable. Thus, this work will ultimately support the shared goal of Community Partners, CCTPG, BBIC and CETF to increase the availability, application, affordability, accessibility, and the adoption of broadband in underserved communities.