LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY - A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development - UNL CMS
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LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development
Part 1:
CONTENTS
IS YOUR COMMUNITY LEVERAGING BROADBAND?
What Is Broadband?..................................................5 TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—BUSINESSES ........................ 17
How is Technology Impacting My Community? • Learn How Nebraska Businesses
• 10 Technology Trends........................................5 are Using Broadband..................................... 18
How Can Broadband Help My Community?........5 TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—AGRICULTURE ...................... 19
How Can My Community Address • Learn How Nebraska Ag Producers and
Broadband Development?........................................6 Agribusinesses are Using Broadband......... 21
Quiz: Is Your Community
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—EDUCATION .......................... 21
Leveraging Broadband?............................................6
• L earn How Nebraska Schools
Six Simple Ways to Address
are Using Broadband..................................... 22
Broadband Development.........................................7
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—HEALTH CARE ....................... 22
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP, SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY ......8
• 10 Benefits of Health IT................................. 22
2014 NEBRASKA BROADBAND INITIATIVE •H
ear How Communities are Learning
About Broadband and Building Support.......8 • L earn How Broadband Is
NEBRASKA PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION Being Used In Health Care........................... 24
BROADBAND AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY .............9
UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—LOCAL GOVERNMENT ........... 24
NITC COMMUNITY COUNCIL • What about Gigabit Internet?..........................9
• Local Government Best Practices................. 25
NEBRASKA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • Why Is Upload Speed Important?...................9
AIM • What about Satellite Service?..........................9 TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—LIBRARIES ........................... 27
• Learn How Nebraska Communities • L earn How Nebraska Libraries
ANNE BYERS , Nebraska Information Technology Commission and Businesses are Working with are Using Broadband..................................... 27
CONNIE HANCOCK , University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Telecommunications Companies....................8 QUALITY OF LIFE, RETAINING YOUTH, AND
CHARLOTTE NARJES , University of Nebraska-Lincoln • Steps You Can Take If You Want ATTRACTING NEW RESIDENTS ...................................... XX
REBECCA VOGT , University of Nebraska-Lincoln Better Broadband Service.............................. 10 • Factors People Consider
• Learn More About Broadband When Choosing a Community..................... 28
and the Broadband Map............................... 11 • Retention Strategies are Important............. 28
SKILLED IT WORKFORCE ............................................... 11 • Using Images to
The Nebraska Broadband Initiative promotes the •1 st Job Lincoln Connects High School Market Your Community................................ 29
adoption and utilization of broadband in Nebraska. Students with Businesses............................... 12 • L earn More about Broadband,
Project partners include the Nebraska Public Service
• Resources for Learning Recruitment and Retention............................ 29
Commission, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Nebraska
Information Technology Commission, Nebraska or Teaching Coding......................................... 13 Part 2:
Department of Economic Development, and AIM.
INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP ......................... 15 ADDRESSING BROADBAND
Activities include the development of a state broadband
map, state broadband conferences, videos highlighting • Listen to David Graff Discuss Hudl’s
DEVELOPMENT IN YOUR COMMUNITY
how broadband is being used in Nebraska communities, Growth and the Supportive Environment Developing a Broadband Plan.............................. 31
surveys of households and businesses, regional
broadband plans, community planning materials, and
for Entrepreneurs in Nebraska..................... 15 Establish a Broadband Committee..................... 31
these recommendations. •W hat Is a Maker Space?................................ 15 Suggested Planning Process.................................. 31
This Broadband Mapping and Planning Initiative aims to
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION— Sample Outline for a
increase broadband adoption and utilization. The project Community Broadband Plan................................ 33
is funded through a grant to the Nebraska Public Service DIGITAL LITERACY AND PUBLIC ACCESS ....................... 16
Commission by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s 10 Technology Trends............................................. 34
National Telecommunications and Information Glossary.................................................................... 38
Administration through the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act. Quiz............................................................................ 38
A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 3
Part 1 WHAT IS BROADBAND?
IS YOUR
Communities—large and small—are leveraging
The term broadband commonly refers to high-speed Internet access. There is no single
broadband to create jobs, improve access to
universally-agreed up on definition regarding how fast a connection should be to be
education and health care, and improve quality
considered “broadband.” To most users, anything faster than dial-up is considered
COMMUNITY
of life.
“broadband.” Video downloads or video streaming can demand broadband speeds of
This workbook can help your Communities— 5 Mbps or greater depending upon the size of the file or quality of the video being
large and small—are leveraging broadband to streamed. Standard definition video can be streamed at speeds from 1 Mbps to 2 Mbps.
LEVERAGING create jobs, improve access to education and
health care, and improve quality of life. This
workbook can help your community assess how
High quality video demands faster speeds, with full HD (1080p) demanding 5 Mbps or
more for a single stream. Having multiple members of a household simultaneously
BROADBAND?
streaming video on separate devices will require even greater connection speeds.
broadband is currently being utilized and to
identify ways in which broadband can enhance Connection Speed Single song (5 MB) Album (100 MB) TV Show (450 MB)
develop opportunities. 4 Mbps 10 seconds 3 minutes 20 seconds 15 minutes
8 Mbps 5 seconds 1 minute 40 seconds 7 minutes 30 seconds
16 Mbps 2.5 seconds 50 seconds 3 minutes 45 seconds
32 Mbps 1.25 seconds 25 seconds 1 minute 52 seconds
50 Mbps .8 seconds 16 seconds 1 minute 12 seconds
100 Mbps .4 seconds 18 seconds 36 seconds
HOW IS TECHNOLOGY HOW CAN BROADBAND
IMPACTING MY COMMUNITY? HELP MY COMMUNITY?
Here is a list of ten technology trends Broadband has become as essential as
impacting communities: electricity for many businesses. Here are ten
ways broadband helps rural communities:
Social media is changing how we
1
communicate 1 Links local businesses to global markets
2 Broadband has gone mobile Allows consumers to tap into e-commerce
2
3 Online video is huge savings
4
Services are moving online, making public 3 Expands access to educational opportunities
access critical 4 Increases local job growth
5 Location-based services know where you are Connects patients to world class
5
6 Cloud computing is changing service models healthcare and reduces care costs
7 IT workers are in high demand Enhances economic options for younger
6
generations
8 Health applications will be the next killer app
Provides new tools to farmers and
Tablets and e-readers are growing in 7
9 ranchers to grow their businesses
popularity
Enables entrepreneurs to locate
10 Technology is facilitating collaboration 8
their businesses locally
Learn more about these technology trends. 9 Attracts customers to local businesses
Offers families low cost options to
10
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
stay in touch using the latest technology
Omaha, NE Source: Internet Innovation Alliance
4 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 5
The following model shows the key elements of broadband-related development:
BROADBAND-RELATED DEVELOPMENT
Broadband Availability/
Affordability skilled IT
Workforce
- Workforce Development
- Recruitment/Community
Marketing
Community
Leadership & Innovation/
Entrepreneurship Economic Growth
HOPE Support TRUST SYNERGY
Digital Literacy and Public Jobs
- Government
Access
- Business
Broadband Adoption
- Education
- Business
- Agriculture
- Education, Health Care,
Government, and
Libraries
Quality of Life
TA K E T H IS
quiz R
T O S EE H O W Y O U ES.
C O M M UNIT Y R A T
HOW CAN MY COMMUNITY ADDRESS BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT?
Broadband development usually builds trust and social capital. Community
starts with government, businesses, partners then work together on bigger projects SIX SIMPLE WAYS TO ADDRESS BROADBAND DEVELOPMENT
and educational entities coming which address: 1 Organize monthly lunch and learn and/or evening sessions on new technologies
together to address the challenges facing • Broadband availability and affordability, 2 Work with the local library to offer additional classes on new technologies
the community or region. Broadband-related
• Developing a skilled IT workforce, 3 Organize a technology week. Activities could include:
development doesn’t require community leaders
who know all of the answers. • Innovation and entrepreneurship, a. Demos of 3D printers, Google Glass or other technologies
b. Lunch and learn sessions
It does, however, require community leaders • Digital literacy and public access, c. Tours to see how local businesses are using technology
who have the passion and commitment to find • Technology adoption,
4 Work with health care providers to schedule sessions on health care apps.
the answers. • And quality of life. (This could be part of a lunch and learn series or a standalone session)
A sense of hope for a better future helps sustain This can lead to economic growth and job 5 Form local user groups for popular devices to share new apps and provide support to new users
initial efforts. Collaborating on small projects creation. 6 Explore ways to encourage youth to learn coding and pursue careers in IT
6 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 7
The following sections provide additional
information on each of the elements of
development. Although all of these areas are
important, it may be overwhelming to address
BROADBAND AVAILABILITY AND AFFORDABILITY
technology-related development. all areas at once. Many communities focus on
three or four areas. IS BROADBAND SERVICE AVAILABLE TO ALL Transmitting this data or storing it in the cloud
Part 2 provides resources to help communities
BUSINESSES, ORGANIZATIONS, AND RESIDENTS? may require a greater upload speed than what
develop plans to address technology-related
Does your community have affordable access to is typically offered in a standard broadband
broadband service? package. Broadband services provided over fiber
usually offer higher upload services.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP, SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY Does your community have adequate mobile
broadband coverage? WHAT ABOUT SATELLITE SERVICE?
Broadband service is available to nearly Satellite service may be the only option for
Are community leaders some households and businesses in very rural
aware of the importance of HEAR HOW COMMUNITIES ARE all Nebraskans, with 99.5% of Nebraskans
having access to service of at least 10 Mbps areas. ViaSat/Exede launched a new satellite in
information technology and do LEARNING ABOUT BROADBAND down. Nebraska ties for 12th on this measure 2011 and began providing improved satellite
they work together to address
the broadband and technology
AND BUILDING SUPPORT according to the federal broadband map
(broadbandmap.gov) 1.
service in parts of the eastern United States.
Another satellite is expected be launched in
needs of the community? 2016 and will provide service to Nebraska and
WHAT ABOUT GIGABIT INTERNET? the western portion of the United States.
Are government, businesses, and educational
At 1 billion “bits per second,” a gigabit is The improved satellite service provides a
entities working together to address broadband
200 times faster than today’s U.S. average of 12 Mbps downstream/3 Mbps upstream
development?
roughly 5 million bits per second (5 Mbps). service. The new service also offers improved
Broadband-related development starts with Several communities in Nebraska now have latency.
community leadership. Forming a community Gigabit Internet, and the list is growing. Just
Nate Wyatt from Gothenburg State Bank A recent test by the FCC documented the latency
technology committee with representatives of over 10% of Nebraska households have Gigabit
discusses the importance of broadband to at 671 ms, significantly less than the latency
key sectors and institutions in a community, Internet available.
communities. offered by older satellite technologies but still
including local government, economic and
Applications which will take advantage of the far above the average latencies of fiber to the
community development organizations,
Nate Wyatt shares how Gothenburg capabilities of Gigabit Internet are still largely premise (24 ms), cable (30 ms) or DSL (48 ms)
business, the library, education, and health
began educating the community in development. In the future, however, Gigabit providers. Exede’s website says that the service
care is often the first step to leveraging
and getting leaders on board. Internet will be increasingly important to the can be used for VOIP, but may not work well
broadband-related development.
economic vitality of communities. for VPN connections or logging in remotely to
WHY IS UPLOAD SPEED IMPORTANT? remote servers.
Upload speeds may be a bigger issue than Sources:
download speeds for some businesses. Many F CC. 2014 Measuring Broadband America Fixed Broadband
Report. (June 2014)
broadband plans provide higher download
USwitch Download Calculator
speeds and significantly lower upload speeds.
Exede
Businesses which rely on information technology
View the panel conversation on broadband often generate large amounts of data.
availability and affordability from the 2014
Connecting Broadband Nebraska conference
National Broadband Map accessed August 1, 2014. Data from Dec. 31, 2013.
1
8 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 9
Communities can address broadband providers to help ensure that current and future
availability and affordability in two ways. First, broadband needs are met. Forming a committee
communities can host training sessions and to address broadband development is often
educational opportunities to help businesses the first step. Next steps may include holding a
and residents better understand broadband public forum and/or documenting the demand
and how it can be used. These activities help for broadband services through a community
build demand for broadband services. Secondly, survey.
communities can work with telecommunications
Here is a list of activities committees may wish • Help community members stay up to date on
LEARN HOW NEBRASKA COMMUNITIES AND BUSINESSES ARE to undertake: new technology by hosting classes, lunch and
WORKING WITH TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES • Invite representatives of local government, learn sessions, etc. These kinds of activities
health care systems, and schools to help build demand for broadband service.
Nate Wyatt from Gothenburg State Bank describes how the
meet periodically to discuss any planned • Invite representatives of local government,
community of Gothenburg learned to work with telecommunications
improvements in telecommunications health care systems, and schools to
providers.
infrastructure and ways in which costs could meet periodically to discuss any planned
be shared. improvements in telecommunications
Troy Stickels from Glenwood Telecommunications talks about infrastructure and ways in which costs could
• Hold a forum to discuss the broadband
how a business owner decided to route a fiber line to benefit be shared.
needs of the community and involve
other businesses in the community.
interested stakeholders. Extend invitations • Identify businesses, community anchor
to local telecommunications providers and institutions (i.e., local government, schools,
officials. health care facilities) and residences
• Develop a broadband plan to address issues interested in better broadband service and
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE IF YOU WANT BETTER BROADBAND SERVICE identified during the community forum and the level of service needed through a survey
or other method. Use this information to
by the broadband committee.
• Talk to your current provider to see if you • Find allies. Identify others in your area present a business case for investing in
can upgrade your service. who are also interested in obtaining better your community to telecommunications
• Go to the Nebraska Broadband Map to see broadband service. Working as a group can providers.
if there are other providers in your area who be more effective than working alone.
may be better able to provide service. • Work with other interested community
• If a telecommunications company is leaders, individuals and businesses
in your area to form a community
LEARN MORE ABOUT BROADBAND AND THE BROADBAND MAP
providing broadband service in an adjacent
broadband committee. Ideally, the Broadband Terms. Gene Hand from the Nebraska Public Service
local exchange area, an individual may file
committee should include representatives Commission explains many commonly used broadband terms.
an application with the Nebraska Public
Service Commission, 402-471-3101 or toll from local government, economic
Definitions for many terms are included in the glossary.
free 1-800-526-0017 to obtain broadband development, businesses (including
service from the telecommunications agricultural producers), schools and
company serving the adjacent exchange libraries, health care providers, and local Broadband Map. Watch a demo of the Nebraska Broadband
area. See Nebraska Revised Statutes 86- telecommunications providers. Map given by Cullen Robbins with the Nebraska
135 to 86-138 for more information on the
process.
10 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 11
SKILLED IT WORKFORCE
1ST JOB LINCOLN CONNECTS
HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH BUSINESSES
1st Job Lincoln will be starting its second year in Lincoln. The program is a
partnership of Lincoln Human Resource Management Association, the AIM
Institute, and Lincoln Public Schools’ IT focus program to provide IT-based
internships for high school students. Through the pilot program, 15 high school
students in the summer of 2013 experienced their first professional job.
The program included workforce readiness preparation.
Hear from Champion Employers Hear from 1st Job Lincoln student
participating in 1st Job Lincoln interns
Is there an adequate IT workforce to meet the Businesses outside of Omaha and Lincoln may
demands of local businesses? find it even harder to recruit IT employees. RESOURCES FOR LEARNING
Are there opportunities for advanced Efforts to engage young people to go into IT OR TEACHING CODING
information technology training through local should start in grade school. Young people
Code Academy sponsors the annual Hour of
high schools, colleges and universities, or other begin to form opinions of careers around third
Code event to encourage young people to try
institutions? grade. However, many young people don’t have
coding and provides free, interactive lessons on
Are technology programs for youth offered in a good idea of what IT workers do. However, A mentor works with young people at the
coding.
local schools or by other organizations? there are several innovative programs, including April 26, 2014 CoderDojo in Lincoln.
both in school and after school programs, which CoderDojos are a global movement of open
The availability and development of a skilled source coding sessions led by volunteer mentors
are introducing students to coding. There are
IT workforce is a key need in Nebraska. As a from education and industry. Kids learn how Scratch is a free, online resource developed by
also a number of resources available including
response, institutions of higher education in to creatively code at their own pace in a fun, the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at the MIT
materials from the Khan Academy and MIT’s
Nebraska are making efforts to increase the relaxed environment. CoderDojos are free to Media Lab which enables children to program
Scratch program which can be used to teach
number of IT graduates. Code Schools in Omaha attend. AIM has hosted CoderDojos in Omaha, interactive stories, games and animations.
coding to students.
and Lincoln are also addressing the need for Lincoln, and Kearney. Code Crush is a four-day five-night immersion
a skilled IT workforce by providing intensive Finding employees with good basic technology
Khan Academy (Requires registration) provides experience for 8th and 9th grade girls to show
training to participants over a 12-week period. skills or helping existing employees learn
a video introducing programming and tutorials them the world of IT. The event was hosted by
However, many employers still report a shortfall. new technologies can also be a challenge for the UNO College of Information Science and
businesses. on drawing using JavaScript.
Technology in the spring of 2014 with support
from Google and Women Investing in Nebraska.
12 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 13
Girls Who Code aims to provide computer
science education and exposure to 1 million
• Collaborations with organizations like
Girl Scouts of the USA and Girls, Inc. to
INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
young women by 2020. The organization introduce Made with Code to girls in their
Does your community/region support Smaller communities are also leveraging
partners with school networks, community- networks, encouraging them to complete
entrepreneurship and innovation through innovation and entrepreneurship to create
based organizations, libraries, technology their first coding experience.
business incubation facilities, meet ups for jobs and economic growth. Xpansion has
companies to bring Girls Who Code Clubs to • Sew Electric offers a collection of do it entrepreneurs, coworking facilities, maker pioneered a rural sourcing model, providing a
communities all across the country. yourself projects that combine fabric, spaces/clubs, or other programs for start-ups? complete range of software quality assurance
Made with Code is an initiative led by Google electronics, and programming. services in rural locations including Kearney,
Over the past several years, Nebraska has
to engage girls in coding. Partners include Girls SMART Girls Club engages girls in science, Nebraska; Loup City, Nebraska; Ames, Iowa;
made significant progress in supporting
Inc., Girl Scouts of the USA, National Center for technology, engineering and math. The YWCA and Manhattan, Kansas. Brent Comstock, chief
technology-related development, innovation
Women and Information Technology, MIT Media in Lincoln sponsors several clubs at Lincoln innovator and owner of Bcom Solutions, has
and entrepreneurship—especially in the
Lab, TechCrunch, and Seventeen. Made with elementary and middle schools. started a coworking facility in Auburn. Alliance
Omaha and Lincoln areas—through University
Code includes:
Code Day Omaha is a 24-hour coding event for programs, code schools, accelerators, contests, was the pilot site for Bella Minds, a crowd-
•B
lockly-based coding projects like students. The 2014 Code Day Omaha is hosted conferences, meet ups, maker spaces, coworking funded technology training program for digitally
designing a bracelet 3D printed by at the Omaha Code School. The world-wide facilities, and venture capital firms. literate rural women who want to improve their
Shapeways, learning to create animated event is coordinated by StudentRND. technology skills.
GIFs or building beats for a music track.
4-H Science, Engineering, and Technology
• V
ideo profiles of girls and women who includes projects, college major information, and
explain how they’re using code to do career information on aerospace, computers,
what they love -- in fashion, music, dance, Listen to David Graff Discuss Hudl’s Growth and the
electricity, GEAR-TECH-21, geospatial,
animation, cancer research and more. Supportive Environment for Entrepreneurs in Nebraska.
physics, robotics, small engines, welding, and
•A
resource directory for parents and girls woodworking.
to find more information about new local
events, camps, classes and clubs.
Jason Patrick Ross / Shutterstock.com WHAT IS A MAKER SPACE?
A maker space is a space with tools and equipment which can be used to develop
equipment where individuals can come together prototypes. The synergy created in maker spaces
to work on projects and interact with others. It may be the biggest benefit, however.
can be associated with a university, community For more information on the UNL Maker Space
college, high school, library, or just a group of and Club, visit make.unl.edu. Other maker
individuals interested in making things. Maker spaces in Nebraska include the Omaha Maker
spaces often charge a fee for access. Group) and Metropolitan Community College
Maker spaces can lower the barriers to entry Fab Lab.
for startups by offering low-cost access to
LEARN MORE ABOUT MAKER SPACES
Shane Farritor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
explains maker spaces and the importance of building a
culture of collaboration and creativity.
The Great Platte River Road Archway
Kearney, NE
14 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 15
Public libraries and other organizations play a a whole range of activities from applying for
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—DIGITAL LITERACY AND PUBLIC ACCESS vital role in providing public access to computers
and broadband. Access to broadband and
jobs to downloading tax forms. Public libraries
also often provide much-needed training to
a computer has now become necessary for those new to computers and those who want to
Do most households subscribe to update their skills.
broadband Service? BROADBAND SERVICE AT HOME 2014
Does the local library offer access to computers Nebraska Households with
Broadband Service at Home
82% TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—BUSINESSES
and the Internet and free or affordable training
By Region Are local businesses effectively utilizing How are businesses in Nebraska using
on basic computer and Internet skills?
Lincoln Area 90% broadband? broadband?
Technology-related development requires Omaha Area 87%
widespread adoption of broadband technologies. From Comfy Feet in Hartington to Dinklage • Over 85 percent of businesses use the
Southeast 77%
Most households in Nebraska (82%) have Feed Yards in Sidney, Nebraska businesses are Internet to purchase goods and services
South Central 76%
broadband service, according to a 2014 survey West Central 74%
utilizing broadband to expand their markets online. In contrast, 61.9 percent of
of Nebraska households. However, there are Panhandle 73% and reduce costs. More importantly, these organizations sell goods and services
significant rural-urban differences in broadband Central 73% businesses are creating jobs and increasing online and 53.2 percent deliver services
adoption. Ninety percent of households in Northeast 72% revenue through the use of broadband. A 2013 and content online.
the Lincoln area and 87% of households in the survey of Nebraska businesses found that • Broadband can transform how
*For the survey, broadband was defined as broadband use is having a positive impact on
Omaha have broadband service. In comparison, anything faster than dial-up. organizations conduct their operations.
the percentage of households with broadband jobs, with 364 respondents reporting a net Over 80 percent of organizations use
Older adults, those with lower incomes and
service in other regions of the state ranges from increase of 654 jobs due to using the Internet. broadband for coordination with suppliers,
those with lower levels of income are also less
72% to 77%. Over 50% of net jobs reported by respondents while over 78 percent use broadband
likely to have broadband service at home.
were attributed to use of the Internet. for employee training and another 75.6
Broadband use is also having a positive impact percent for improving customer service.
on business revenue with typical respondents
reporting 25 to 45 percent of revenue from the
BROADBAND SERVICE BY DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS, 2014 Internet.
120
100
E-COMMERCE USES OF BROADBAND
95 96
91 91
82 Research by Staff 95
80 75
64 65 Website for Organization 89 5 4
60 53 Purchasing Goods or Services 86 4 4 6
45
40 76 8 9 7
Customer Service
20 Advertising and Promotion 72 10 11 6
0 Selling Goods or Services 62 7 16 15
19-39
40-64
65 and older
Less than $20K
$20-50K
$50-70K
$75K+
Less than High School
High School graduate
Some College
College Grad +
Rich Media 54 15 20 11
Deliver Services and Content 53 14 19 14
0 % of respondents 100
N = 745 Currently Use Plan to Use No Plan to Use Not Applicable
Source: Nebraska Broadband eSolutions Benchmarking Report
16 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 17
E-PROCESS USES OF BROADBAND
Country Drawers in Cambridge, Nebraska—Eco-friendly
Document Transfer 92 4 operations are in place from every angle for Country Drawers.
Access Government Info 87 4 4 5 Natural and organic products are promoted, managed and sold
internationally with online connections and capabilities.
Supplier Coordination 87 3 5 5
Banking and Financial 79 4 9 8 Roe Buick in Grand Island, Nebraska— The car shopping and
78 7 9 5
maintenance experience is upgraded at Roe Buick. Car shoppers
Staff Training
can view inventory, schedule appointments and ask questions
Use Collaborative Tools 74 8 11 7
online.
Government Transactions 72 6 10 11
Social Networking 71 10 12 6 Agilx in Lincoln, Nebraska—Custom software and solutions
7 21 10
are available anywhere. Lincoln goes global for Agilix customers
Teleworking 62
though broadband.
0 % of respondents 100
N = 745 Currently Use Plan to Use No Plan to Use Not Applicable
C & C Processing near Diller, Nebraska— C & C Processing
Source: Nebraska Broadband eSolutions Benchmarking Report offers traditional high quality meat products online to shoppers
anywhere in the country.
LEARN HOW NEBRASKA BUSINESSES ARE USING BROADBAND Assurity Life in Lincoln, Nebraska—In their new building or
across the country, Assurity uses broadband to manage life
MetalQuest in Hebron, Nebraska—Global markets find
insurance data for their tremendous customer base.
MetalQuest for precision manufacturing. Broadband makes this
operation world-class, competitive – and successful.
Comfy Feet in Hartington, Nebraska—This small town
company meets customer requests worldwide. Broadband TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—AGRICULTURE
access makes promotions, jobs and sales possible for
Are agricultural producers and agribusinesses veterinary services are expected growth areas
Comfy Feet.
effectively utilizing broadband? with 29% of livestock producers planning to use
Broadband applications are becoming these applications in the future.
Bassett Livestock in Bassett, Nebraska—Bassett Livestock
increasingly important for agricultural At least 60% of grain producers report using
brings cattle auctions from rural Nebraska to bidders and
producers. A 2013 survey of Nebraska broadband for commodity prices/market
buyers nationwide.
agricultural producers found that over 60% of information (77%), crop management (65%),
livestock producers are using broadband for and government or regulatory agency reporting
Fred Lockwood and Company CPA in Chadron, Scottsbluff commodity prices/market information (69%), (60%). The two applications with the greatest
and Mullen— Broadband access adds up to positive impacts government/regulatory agency reporting (63%), expected growth are GPS information and
for these accounting offices. They connect – and succeed – with and auctions (63%). Herd management and government/regulatory agency reporting.
customers and employees to save time and money.
18 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 19USE OF BROADBAND APPLICATIONS
BY NEBRASKA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS LEARN HOW NEBRASKA AG PRODUCERS
AND AGRIBUSINESSES ARE USING BROADBAND
Livestock Producers
Commodity Prices/Market Info 69 6
Dinklage Feed Yards in Sidney, Nebraska--They bring high tech
Auctions 63 6 tools to traditional livestock operations. Dinklage Feed Yards
use high speed Internet in all areas of monitoring, feeding and
Govt/Regulatory Agency Reporting 63 6
health care for their cattle.
Farm Business Planning 56 6
Direct Product Sales 50 6
Miletta Vista Winery near St. Paul, Nebraska--The view is
Herd Management 35 29
awesome; the wine is wonderful. With a new broadband
Veterinary Services and Info 24 29 connection, Miletta Vista Winery keeps high tech operations
Grain Producers
moving and customers wanting another glass.
Commodity prices/Market Info 77 10
Crop Management 65 10 21st Century Equipment in Bridgeport, Nebraska--Miles don’t
Govt/Regulatory Agency Reporting 60 17 matter for this equipment dealer. Broadband lets dealerships
and customers in three states share information immediately.
ROI Calculators 57 7
Farm Business Planning 57 10
GPS Information 55 19
Business Accounting 50 13
Auctions 47 7
Water Management 45 10
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—EDUCATION
0 % of respondents 100
Do local schools use technology to enhance of video distance learning classes and decreased
Currently Use Plan to Use educational opportunities and communication the cost of commodity Internet for participating
with families? K-12 entities. Nebraska K-20 education
Source: Nebraska Broadband eSolutions Benchmarking Report and Technology Use in Agriculture Cornhusker Economics
Schools are among the heaviest users of now enjoys one of the lowest unit costs for
broadband, using broadband for distance commodity Internet in the entire country.
Many smart farming technologies, including cellular connections. In some areas of the state, education, content management systems to Schools also play a role in providing
those utilizing GPS, may require a cellular cellular coverage may be a barrier to utilizing support classroom learning, web-based systems opportunities for students to learn computer
connection. For example, precision guidance RTK or other technologies. Precision agriculture that let parents check grades or lunch balances, applications and coding. IT focus programs and
for row crop production requires GPS accuracy and remote sensing technologies produce large online assessments, and/or using web-based career academies can encourage students to
of +/- 1 inch accuracy. GPS correction through amounts of data. Limited upload speeds in some systems to schedule parent teacher conferences. choose a career in IT and help students develop
RTK (Real Time Kinematic) is often done through areas of the state may also present a barrier. The state’s education network, Network the necessary skills to enter the IT workforce.
Nebraska-Education, has enabled the exchange
20 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 21LEARN HOW NEBRASKA SCHOOLS ARE USING BROADBAND
Lincoln Public Schools Distance Learning in Lincoln, Nebraska—
The Lincoln Public Schools IT Focus Program Teacher Steve Carr
describes the benefits of distance education.
Nancy Olsen uses Broadband in Education—Nancy Olsen, Banner
County Public Schools, uses broadband in her classroom to teach
virtually and to partner with other schools.
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION— 10 BENEFITS OF HEALTH IT
HEALTH CARE 1
Enables more informed decision-making and
enhanced quality of care
Do local hospitals and health care providers use Saves lives through remote consultations,
2
technology to improve patient care? whether urgent or diagnostic
Health IT is impacting the way health care Creates more efficient, convenient and potentially
3
is delivered and managed. Electronic health more cost-effective delivery of care
records and health information exchange 4 Facilitates earlier—and more accurate—diagnoses
are making it easier for physicians and other Provides greater, and faster, access to a patient’s
health care providers to have more complete medical history, reducing the risk of negative
5
patient information at the point of care. drug interactions or poor response to a course of
Remote monitoring technologies are helping to treatment
reduce hospital readmissions. Patient portals, Improves administrative efficiency and The Nebraska Statewide Telehealth Network view a patient’s medication history, avoiding an
6
personal health records, and other applications coordination
connects nearly all of the state’s hospitals and adverse drug event. A patient’s primary care
are making it easier for patients to better Allows rural residents to receive expert diagnosis all of the state’s public health departments. The physician and any specialists involved in his/her
7
manage their health care. Telehealth is making and treatment from distant medical centers
network is used for patient consultations via care can both have access to a patient’s latest
consultations with specialists more accessible to Increases timeliness of treatment and decreases interactive video, teleradiology, administrative lab results and medications.
those living in rural Nebraska. 8 transfer rates, while reducing medical costs meetings and continuing medical education.
through video technology
Health IT is also making it easier for patients
The bandwidth requirements for many health Nebraska is a leader in exchanging health and care givers to be more informed and
IT applications are similar to common business Supports real-time treatment by first responders
9 information so health care providers have more active participants in health care. Several of
through the use of wireless devices
applications. However, transferring radiological complete patient information at the point of the emerging health applications will require
images requires significant bandwidth (100 Enhances senior wellness and preventative
care. NeHII (the Nebraska Health Information patients and/or their care givers to have
10 care through telemedicine and remote-in home
Mbps or more), making health systems one Initiative) is one of the largest statewide health broadband access and the skills to use these
monitoring
of the biggest users of broadband in many information exchanges in the country. By using applications.
Source: Internet Innovation Alliance
communities. NeHII, a doctor in an emergency room can
22 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 23LEARN HOW BROADBAND IS BEING USED IN HEALTH CARE
Pioneer Memorial Rest Home in Mullen--The Pioneer Memorial
Rest Home in Mullen, Nebraska, is using broadband for telehealth
consultations with medical specialists using interactive video.
Nebraska Health Information Initiative--All your medical records
are available in one place – even if you are moving around.
Nebraska Health Information Initiative coordinates consolidated
patient medical history for doctors, providers and patients.
Dale Gibbs from CHI Health Good Samaritan Health discusses
how broadband is impacting health care and the importance of
broadband to the home.
Douglas County Courthouse
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—LOCAL GOVERNMENT Omaha, NE
Are local governments using technology to implementing e-government services by
to communicate with citizens, to provide Nebraska municipalities and counties, according
information, and to provide services? to 2012 surveys of members of the Nebraska
Association of County Officials and Nebraska
LOCAL E-GOVERNMENT BEST PRACTICES
Does your community have a well-designed
League of Municipalities. LOCAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITES SHOULD: • Allow individuals to download application
website which provides information for both
forms for services or submit applications
prospective and current residents? • 46% of municipal officials and 25% of • Provide contact information for elected
forms for services online
From a driver’s license to marriage license county officials indicated that the ability to officials
accept payment by credit card was a large • Include links to other websites that provide
or pet licenses to property taxes and parking • Provide contact information for local
challenge. useful information to individuals
tickets, citizens and residents interact with government departments
local governments on a regular basis. Citizens • 39% of municipal officials and 41% of • Include one or more navigations tool
• Provide other information about local
expect to be able to find information online county officials indicated that funding to government operations and finances • Have accessibility features
and to be able to complete transactions online. implement e-government services was a • Group related information and services on
• Provide information about the services
Local government websites also often serve as large challenge. their websites, including in multiple ways
they provide
a source of general community information for • Other barriers identified include having when possible
residents, visitors, and prospective residences. staff available for e-government projects
Funding and the ability to accept payment and keeping up with new technology.
by credit card are two of the major barriers
24 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 25LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHOULD CONSIDER LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHOULD ADDRESS PRIVACY TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION—LIBRARIES
WHETHER IT IS COST EFFECTIVE TO: AND SECURITY BY:
• E nable websites to be easily viewed by • Implementing effective information Libraries are a key partner in efforts to provide Lincoln to provide additional training for library
individuals using mobile devices technology security policies and public access to computers and broadband and staff on common computer applications so that
procedures to provide access to training. Most Nebraska they can better answer technology questions
•O
ffer mobile applications designed for
households (77%) have access to a local place, from library customers. Libraries in Nebraska
multiple operating systems commonly • Training staff on information technology
such as a library or school, in their neighborhood also have the opportunity to participate in the
used by mobile devices security policies and procedures
or community where they can use an Internet- Edge Initiative. The program helps libraries and
•A
ccept online payment for services. • Accessing free or low-cost resources for accessible computer for free, according to a local government work together to assess how
improving information technology security 2014 survey of Nebraska households. Thirty- they are using technology and the technology
LOCAL GOVERNMENT SHOULD MAKE EFFORTS
• Establishing privacy policies that specify two percent of the households without Internet needs of the community.
TO IMPROVE THEIR WEBSITES BY:
how they will collect and use personal access use the computer resources at the public Libraries may be challenged by several factors,
•U
sing website traffic statistics to analyze information provided by individuals use facility. including:
how their websites are used and could be
• Posting established privacy policies on Libraries are growing in their capacity to serve • Insufficient technical support,
improved
their websites as essential digital connectors and vibrant
• S oliciting comments and feedback about • Need for staff training on technology
community hubs for people to meet, learn,
their websites and then acting on the Local governments should consider using applications,
grow and exchange ideas together. Through a
information received social media to communicate information to • Funding to replace aging computers,
three-year Library Broadband Builds Nebraska
the public. If social media is being used, local
Communities grant awarded to the Nebraska • Growing demand for greater broadband
governments should develop policies and
Library Commission in 2010, libraries in speeds,
procedures that specify staff responsibilities for
Nebraska significantly improved their capacity • Distance from a community’s last-mile
maintaining social media accounts.
to provide public access to computers and the broadband infrastructure.
Source: State of Wisconsin Legislative Audit Bureau
Internet. The Nebraska Library Commission
has partnered with the University of Nebraska-
LEARN HOW NEBRASKA LIBRARIES ARE USING BROADBAND
Oakland Public Library in Oakland, Nebraska--It’s not just about
books anymore. The Oakland Public Library connects the area with
information and free onsite access for their guests.
26 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 27QUALITY OF LIFE, RETAINING YOUTH, AND ATTRACTING NEW RESIDENTS USING IMAGES TO
MARKET YOUR COMMUNITY
Does your community pay careful attention
to quality of life issues? A high quality of life is
FACTORS PEOPLE CONSIDER People relate to community images.
essential to attract and retain new residents, WHEN CHOOSING A COMMUNITY They can be very important in developing the
viewer’s first impression of a community.
workers and businesses.
Community marketing research has found that Images should show:
Broadband availability may impact quality of factors people consider when they are choosing a • People participating in activities and
life. Is your broadband adequate for future new community include: using community amenities
generations and businesses? • Safety
• Proximity to Relatives
• A diversity of employment opportunities
Does your community have marketing
• Open Spaces (agriculture, blue collar, professional,
strategies to attract new community members?
• Slower Pace of Life health care, etc.)
Does your community have strategies to retain • Lower Cost of Living • Available services, health care, schools
community members by helping them feel like • Quality of Education
• A range of available housing options
they belong? • Recreation
• Health Care • Examples of multigenerational and
Is your community addressing sustainability
• Opportunity to Make Living intergenerational interaction
through renewable energy or other projects?
With an increasingly mobile population, RETENTION STRATEGIES • The local flavor, landscape and
surrounding area
communities need to offer a high quality of
life in order to attract and retain population.
ARE IMPORTANT of the community
Research shows that residents can be successfully • Everyday activities like grocery shopping,
For many individuals--especially young adults
recruited. However, new residents may be difficult to
and professionals--broadband is an important children walking to parks,
retain. Meeting new community members, learning
requirement in choosing a community. about their individual skills and interests, and
dads mowing the yard
introducing them to those who share those interests • A mix of age, gender, and ethnic diversity
or require those skills can help newcomers “fit in”.
• A realistic view of what it is like to live in
the community
LEARN MORE ABOUT BROADBAND, RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Ryan Mead, CEO/Founder, Vitru Inc., explains importance of
broadband and quality of life.
(Video – broadband session – 16:56 – 17:30)
The Marketing Hometown America study guide and develop & implement marketing plans and
can help your community learn what new community improvement projects.
residents are looking for as they relocate to a This video provides an overview of the guide.
rural community, discover often overlooked local Learn about strategies to attract and retain
assets that can attract potential new residents workers in a changing economy at the
Community Marketing site.
28 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 29Part 2 DEVELOPING A BROADBAND PLAN
ADDRESSING
With an increasingly mobile population, A broadband plan can be integrated into a • Ask committee members to share how
communities need to offer a high quality of broader economic development plan or can their organizations are currently using
life in order to attract and retain population. be a standalone plan. It can be a simple broadband and what they are planning
BROADBAND
For many individuals--especially young adults plan, focusing on adoption of broadband in the near future.
and professionals--broadband is an important technologies. Or it can be a more detailed plan, • Discuss where broadband is available.
requirement in choosing a community. addressing technology adoption, digital literacy Go to the Nebraska Broadband Map to
DEVELOPMENT Technology continues to change, challenging and public access, workforce development, see where broadband is available.
all sectors of a community to learn new skills innovation and entrepreneurship, broadband
• Discuss broadband adoption and
and adapt. Developing a broadband plan can availability or affordability, and quality of life.
utilization in the community. Is broadband
IN YOUR help communities meet these challenges.
A broadband plan can help your community:
ESTABLISH A BROADBAND COMMITTEE
The first step in developing a broadband
subscribership below, at or above the
state average (link to broadband survey
COMMUNITY
1. Increase awareness of new technologies; plan is to establish a broadband committee. information below)? Are residents satisfied
2. Stimulate demand for broadband; The committee should consist of representatives with broadband service?
3. Support technology-related development, of the following sectors: • Discuss business utilization of broadband
entrepreneurship, and innovation; • Local government technologies. Are local businesses using
• Business broadband below, at or above the state
4. Work with telecommunications providers to
level of utilization (link to business use of
make sure that the broadband needs of the • Economic development organizations
broadband information)? Are businesses
community are met;
• Education satisfied with broadband service?
5. Stimulate job creation and business revenue;
• Health care • Visit local businesses, schools, and/
6. Improve health care quality and help patients or hospitals to see how they are using
• Libraries
better manage their care; technology.
• Agriculture
• Broadband providers • Identify the largest telecommunication
users in the community and meet
• Non-profits, arts, culture, and history
with them to learn how they are using
groups (if possible)
technology, how much they are spending
• And other significant groups or sectors on telecommunications and information
within the region technology, what their current and future
Extra effort should be made to recruit technology needs are, and what the
representatives of the region’s largest users of region/community can do to help them
telecommunications and information technology. meet their technology needs.
SUGGESTED PLANNING PROCESS 2. Develop a shared vision of how the
1. Develop a common understanding of how community will be using broadband in the
the community is using broadband and the near future
community’s broadband-related needs. Here • How will businesses be utilizing
are some suggested activities to help your broadband?
committee develop a shared understanding • How will broadband be used in
of how broadband is currently being used education, health care, libraries, and local
Rural Nebraska and the needs of each sector: government?
• How will residents be utilizing broadband?
30 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 313. Identify priority areas and conduct an initial comprehensive approach and may have a
assessment of each area. A broadband plan much more extensive plan. Either way, be sure SAMPLE OUTLINE FOR A COMMUNITY BROADBAND PLAN
may address all of the following areas or just to include a few relatively easy action items to government, and/or libraries; digital literacy/
VISION
a few areas that have been prioritize by the help build momentum public access; workforce development;
committee: Address one or two of the following in your
Here are some additional activities to consider: recruitment/community marketing; innovation,
vision for broadband in your community:
Broadband Availability/Affordability • Hold a community forum to discuss entrepreneurship, broadband availability/
• Describe how businesses will be using affordability).
Skilled IT Workforce broadband issues.
broadband.
• Workforce Development • Encourage local businesses to work with For Each Priority Area:
• Describe how agricultural producers will be
• Recruitment/Community Marketing area schools, community colleges, colleges, • Describe the current state (optional)
using broadband.
and/or universities on internship programs. • Describe your goal/objective for each
Innovation/Entrepreneurship • Describe how residents will be using
• Encourage a culture of innovation and priority area.
Digital Literacy and Public Access broadband.
entrepreneurship by organizing meeting Here is a sample from the Western Region
Broadband/Technology Adoption ups of entrepreneurs/start-ups. • Describe how broadband will be used in
Broadband Plan.
• Businesses education, health care, libraries, and local
• Form a makers club or host meet ups. Priority 1: Education, Digital Literacy and
government.
• Agriculture • Explore connectivity models for libraries Advanced Technology Training — Coordinate and
• Describe how broadband will make your
• Education (Link), Health Care (Link), such as partnering with schools or joining increase educational offerings around digital
community a better place.
Government (Link), and Libraries the State’s education network, Network literacy skills and advanced technology training.
Nebraska. Here is a sample vision statement from the
• Digital Literacy and Public Access Priority 2: Economic Development — Expand
North Central Region Broadband Plan:
Quality of Life • Assess the demand for a coworking space awareness and growth of technology
or meeting room available for home- Residents and businesses in the North Central educational offerings to strengthen economic
The Nebraska Broadband Initiative has region of Nebraska, a predominantly rural area,
developed an assessment tool which can be based businesses/start-ups. Discuss development, agritourism and entrepreneurship.
the community’s broadband needs with will have access to digital information and
downloaded and printed. • List planned activities to address this
broadband providers. communication tools and the training to use
4. Identify areas in which more information priority area. It is often helpful to include
them as skillfully as urban Nebraskans.
needs be gathered or a more thorough • Partner with a local university, college, the entity or individual taking the lead,
community college or high school or library Here is a sample vision statement from the an approximate time frame, and how the
assessment needs to be made. Western Region Broadband Plan.
to develop a maker space. project will be funded.
5. Develop a plan to achieve this vision. A long-term vision to increase youth retention
A simple plan may consist of just a few action • Work with public safety organizations/first Note: A simple, brief plan that is implemented is
responders to develop a plan to use social and facilitate business transitioning, increase better than a professionally produced plan that
items. Some communities may take a more economic development, and decrease the digital
media to provide emergency information. sits on the shelf. It is OK to start with one or two
divide and “digital deserts” was developed at priority areas and just a couple of action items.
the one-day regional summit.
RESOURCES
PRIORITY AREAS Additional resources are available at
Identify priority areas (i.e., adoption of broadband.nebraska.gov.
technology by businesses; adoption of
technology by agricultural producers; adoption
of technology by education, health care,
32 LEVERAGING BROADBAND IN YOUR COMMUNITY A Workbook to Help Communities Stimulate Broadband Development 33You can also read
