ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates basic availability challenges persist in the United States and countries around the globe, the mere availability of infrastructure alone will not be enough to enhance competitiveness. Challenges that it discusses includes: infrastructure deployment, data reporting and availability, broadband use, broadband policy and broadband in the developing world. A key step in analyzing the gaps in coverage associated with the mix of technologies will rely on more accurate and exhaustive data collection efforts. Research exists about broadband use and its contribution to business competitiveness, some work provides important clues to it potential impacts. Although the issues associated with speed were discussed earlier, remaining challenges include the licensing of the wireless spectrum, municipal involvement in broadband provision, competition and digital literacy. Not surprisingly, this order focuses on two states, but it is structured to create a policy framework for 21 states that have laws that restrict community broadband services.
