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S P R I N G 2 0 1 7
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BUSINESS
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NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association has an initiative—
known as Smart Rural Community—that promotes rural
broadband networks and related applications. The program
encourages rural areas to use broadband to foster economic
development, commerce, education, health care, government
services, public safety and security, and efficient energy use.
The program is based on the understanding that communities
across the U.S. must be able to compete in a global marketplace,
and that rural communities are often at a disadvantage in that
they typically have less access to the tools and technologies that
make it possible.
But, what makes a rural community “smart”? A truly smart com-
munity relies not only on technology, but also on the people
who adopt and employ broadband-related services. According
to NTCA, “A smart rural community should strive to create next-
generation applications and platforms.” The organization offers
several examples of outcomes that can be gained through the
use of broadband:
•
Customized learning environments
for students, including
interactive and collaborative components
•
A dynamic health care infrastructure
capable of support-
ing such applications as electronic scheduling and patient
monitoring
•
Precision farming tools
such as real-time weather reports
and other helpful information that enable them to make
better decisions
•
Platforms for connecting citizens
with local, state, and
federal government resources
•
A next-generation 911 system
that allows first responders to
communicate efficiently during emergencies
•
Modern utility networks
that give users more information
and control
•
An energy-saving smart home network
that enables appliances
and devices to connect with each other
Broadband provides a foundation that makes all of these devel-
opments possible. NTCA notes, “New innovative applications
are created when there is a technological platform in place.” A
good broadband infrastructure should be capable of supporting
the initiatives listed above, and have the capacity to continue
doing so long into the future. The organization suggests that
communities provide capabilities of at least 20 Mbps to regular
customers, and 1 Gbps to institutions such as hospitals, libraries,
and schools. The Smart Rural Community should also offer
reliable mobile access. In addition, broadband providers should
have a strong cybersecurity plan in place.
Madison Communications was honored to be
named a Smart Rural Community by NTCA–The
Rural Broadband Association. This distinction
reflects more than our company’s fiber
infrastructure. It also pays tribute
to our community partners who are
using technology to help improve
the lives of local residents. Learn
more at
http://www.gomadison.
com/smartCommunity.
Broadband enables rural
Americans to enhance
competitiveness and quality of life
What is a
Smart Rural
Community?
You’ve heard of smart homes, smart phones, and the smart grid, which all rely on broadband technology to
operate more effectively and efficiently. The same technology can be used to enhance entire communities.