Gresham House’s Post

The UK Government has today announced a substantial investment in rural broadband. A positive step forward in improving digital inclusivity throughout the UK, however there are other key factors that must still be considered. Kevin Monaghan, Chief Commercial Officer of Complete Technology Group - “Digital connectivity is essential for consumers and businesses today, as the Government says, but injecting more money into the broadband rollout will not tackle the lack of awareness that is heavily impacting take-up. Full Fibre, lightning fast, superfast, ultrafast – working on the front line with landlords and residents, we know that a notable proportion of people are confused by this sort of industry jargon, in turn hindering take-up.  “It’s crucial the Government works with the telecoms sector to implement a nationwide education programme so consumers can make informed decision about broadband services and providers. Simply plumbing in the infrastructure is not enough; digital connectivity will only be achieved when there is greater awareness among consumers on the value it provides, and how to navigate the broadband market with confidence.” Read of full blog here - https://lnkd.in/eyGbc6EZ #Broadband #DigitalInfrastructure #UKGovernment #DigitalInclusion #FibreBroadband #FullFibre 

The latest FarrPoint survey reveals a strong commitment among local authorities to gigabit broadband rollout, highlighting its critical role in driving economic growth, enhancing social inclusion, and meeting environmental targets. Let's collaborate to overcome connectivity challenges and unlock the full potential of our digital future. https://lnkd.in/eMA5D4xz #GigabitBroadband #SmartCities #DigitalTransformation FarrPoint Follow Connectivity.World

How will the prioritization of gigabit broadband impact local communities and businesses across the UK? Share your thoughts on the importance of ultra-fast internet for economic growth, social inclusion, and smart city development. #GigabitUK #DigitalConnectivity Follow Connectivity.World

Bridging the Digital Divide: The Rural-Urban 5G Gap in the UK - https://buff.ly/3V54Lvc #DigitalDivideUK #5GGap #BridgingTheGap #RuralUrbanConnectivity #CMILabsPLC #UKTechDivide #InclusiveConnectivity #5GInnovation #DigitalInclusionUK #RuralTechAdvancements

As I've posted before, there remains a vast digital divide in too many parts of America affecting too many people and communities, highlighting the urgent need for reliable internet access for all. Further spotlighting this need, the recent "Insights 2024: Rural Broadband Business Sustainability" report from A10 Networks and Gatepoint Research offers valuable insights into the state of rural broadband, painting a picture of progress, challenges, and a hopeful future. Here are my Key Takeaways: Rural Broadband Isn't Just About Access – It's About Sustainable Business Growth: The report emphasizes that while expanding broadband access is crucial, building a sustainable business model is equally important for long-term success. This resonates deeply with Sonar's mission to empower ISPs with the tools they need to not only connect communities but also thrive as businesses. Federal Funding Fuels Progress: The report highlights the significant impact of federal funding programs like RDOF and BEAD in driving the expansion of broadband infrastructure in rural areas. This is encouraging news, as it demonstrates the government's commitment to closing the digital divide. Diverse Players Entering the Field: Electric utilities, co-ops, municipalities, and regional ISPs are stepping up to bring broadband to underserved areas, leveraging their existing infrastructure and community connections. This collaborative approach is vital for reaching every corner of rural America. Technological Innovation: A combination of fiber, fixed wireless, and other technologies is being deployed to connect the "last mile." The report notes the significant progress made in fixed wireless access, which accounted for a staggering 90% of new broadband subscriptions in 2022. The IPv4/IPv6 Challenge: The report also raises an important concern regarding the transition from IPv4 to IPv6, highlighting the potential impact on rural ISPs' growth plans. This is an area where Sonar is well-positioned to assist, as our OSS/BSS solutions are designed to streamline network management and simplify the transition to new technologies. Sonar's Commitment to Rural Broadband: At Sonar, we believe that reliable, high-quality internet access is a fundamental right, not a luxury. We're committed to empowering rural ISPs with the tools and support they need to overcome challenges, build sustainable businesses, and deliver life-changing connectivity to their communities. The insights from this report underscore the importance of our mission, which is why it resonated with me. We're excited to be part of the solution, working hand-in-hand with our customers to bridge the digital divide and unlock the full potential of rural America. Please share your thoughts. How can we, as an industry, work together to ensure the sustainable growth of rural broadband? Let's connect and continue the conversation! #RuralBroadband #DigitalDivide #SonarSoftware #BroadbandForAll

Tech infrastructural development and funding in the Global South Nations is crucial for their economic growth, social development, and overall progress. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of investing in technology infrastructure in these nations to bridge the digital divide and improve access to information and communication technologies. https://g.co/kgs/rTBeNxH #TechEMAvision# https://lnkd.in/erzQzyH6

Unlocking value with rural broadband: a policy rethink…. This article published by techUK emphasises the points we at Genius Technology Solutions have been raising about the lack of focus on rural IT infrastructure. Do you agree that a new approach is needed - a network where no one is left behind and enables rural businesses and communities to thrive? That’s our belief - #itsgenius

An interesting read from Geopolitical Intelligence Services on the need for investment into reliable digital communications infrastructure across Africa, especially in rural areas. The article notes that in an increasingly networked world, those without reliable access face being left further and further behind as time goes on and that only a combination of private investment and policy support can help plug this gap. GIS write that even a gradual improvement in connectivity will enhance the lives of millions. At Helios Towers, we’re striving to accelerate connectivity through achieving a 2.2x tenancy ratio by 2026, maximising efficiency across our platform as well as the number of subscribers our infrastructure reaches. Reading the piece, I was also pleased to see that 3 of our markets are called out for their deployment of 5G broadband – there’s certainly more to come in this space. https://lnkd.in/dmBfKEBZ #HeliosTowers #DigitalDivide #HTBusinessExcellence

Connectivity is driving economic growth in Cambridgeshire. Discover the key initiatives Connecting Cambridgeshire is implementing to improve digital infrastructure. #Cambridgeshire #AdvancedConnectivity #5G

Big news for the UK's digital landscape🔌🌐. #Nexfibre's £1bn investment aims to expand broadband capacity, especially in underserved areas, aiming to reach 1 million additional premises within a year. Goal? #FTTP in 5 million homes by 2026. Game on, #BT. 🚀💪 #DigitalInfrastructure