Switchfast Blog: The Future of IT
National Broadband Plan – How Will It Affect Small Business?
Thursday, March 18, 2010 by Bryan Anderson
The United States government plans to give Americans what they
need - faster internet access.
Okay, "need" may be a strong word, but with the vast evolution
and adaptation of internet technologies, it's safe to say a speedy
internet connection would help both the consumer and enterprise
industry.
Not only will it be fast, but the plan is for the government to provide the
world's fastest internet access.
In a summary presented by the FCC found over at wired.com, the group is "calling for more
competition among broadband providers, more spectrums for wireless
data services, subsidies for rural and poor citizens, and education
for the digitally challenged." The plan touches on multiple
aspects, including "proposing to create a nationwide wireless
network dedicated to public safety and emergency workers."
Although some reactions have been positive, there are others who
oppose the possibility of a "big-government, regulated, censored"
internet.
Another question looming is one of financing - who will pay for
this enormous undertaking?
One of the options is a "National Broadband Fee," paid for
by taxpayers. Although some of the major recommendations are
"budget-neutral," according to PCmag.com, they also point out that
the public safety spectrum would require Congress to okay public
funding.
How will this affect small businesses? Here are some
possible benefits, according to networkworld.com:
- Increased broadband speeds and deployment will increase
workers' ability to effectively telecommute
- Enterprises will also benefit from FCC initiatives to implement
broadband more aggressively in healthcare and in energy grids,
since increased technological efficiency in those industries should
help hold down health and energy costs for businesses
- Increased broadband speeds will give businesses more bang for
their bucks on broadband connectivity
This interoperable communications plan - which has been in the
rearview mirror since 2001 - will also give rural areas a more
reliable internet connection. This will open up a new line of
communication for businesses to explore with potential audiences
that struggle with spotty, unreliable access.
Do you see this plan as beneficial for your company? For you
personally? For the country as a whole? Leave a comment with your
opinion!
Until next time -
Matthew Hymel
Switchfast Technologies
Chicago IT Support &
Consulting
Rochester
IT Support & Consulting
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