May 11, 2008
USA and Broadband
I’ve known for a while that the United States is ranked 11th to 24th (depending on the report you look at) in broadband speed and cost. Ars Technica, however, wrote an article about why that is.
In most markets in the US there are only two options for broadband internet, your cable or phone company. Most small/medium sized cities only have one option for each. Think of your own choices for cable and phone. The FCC has allowed this to happen. On top of this, the government has not provided any incentive for expanding broadband infrastructure causing companies only expand infrastructure to where it is profitable. Further, prices of broadband are much higher because companies must foot the entire bill.
Most developed countries adopted a broadband policy years ago, stating that it is an important utility that helps drive the economy. Other countries subsidize and mandate infrastructure expansion regardless of profitability and employ policies that increase competition. The result is faster internet speeds at lower costs for the consumer.
The world is starting to move very quickly. Having the Internet allows for rapid collaboration and communication. Increasing broadband speed increases productivity and economic prosperity. It’s my hope that the US will institute a policy to revitalize the continually slipping broadband infrastructure in this country.
Jason
