The broadband industry is grappling with a few critical themes in the race to expand markets and utilize public broadband funding
Music City was the perfect backdrop for Fiber Connect 2024. The event hit all the right notes as it brought together industry leaders and innovators. The energy at this year’s event was remarkable, with a record number of attendees and exhibitors gathering to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in fiber broadband. The buzz in Nashville centered on the future of broadband, here are a few key themes that are sure to be music to the ears of those eager to stay ahead of the curve.
Overcoming Deployment Barriers
Delays in network deployment planning are a significant concern for operators, design, engineering, and utility locate partners. Panelists emphasized the importance of regular communication with project stakeholders and permitting agencies. Building relationships with local entities and maintaining transparency were highlighted as best practices.
Experts also stressed the need for better collaboration between operators and contractors to enhance construction outcomes, prevent damage, and ensure job site safety. A new whitepaper from the Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) and Common Ground Alliance (CGA) underscored this, focusing on careful planning, tighter stakeholder coordination, and improved data collection to reduce delays related to underground infrastructure damage.
Embracing Digitization & AI
The industry is shifting away from spreadsheets, printed maps, and manual communication methods towards digitization. One panelist remarked, “We work in spreadsheets, and I 100% do not want to work in spreadsheets.”
Digitization opportunities include mapping and geospatial intelligence, fieldwork, and reporting. Providing field technicians with user-friendly tools to capture better data was highlighted as a way to improve construction outcomes and job site safety.
Session panelists advocated for using GIS mapping and geospatial intelligence tools, dubbing them “Moneyball for telecom,” as they reveal opportunities during market planning and support data-driven decision-making. AI was also a hot topic, with discussions on how it can increase bandwidth needs and benefit network operations, demand capacity planning, and new market feasibility studies using geospatial intelligence and computer vision applications.
Preparing for the Long Game
Readiness was a key theme, focusing on service differentiation, workforce development, and BEAD readiness.
With many operators deploying fiber, differentiating services beyond speed and price is crucial. Building goodwill with local communities and focusing on quality service, uptime, and tailored packages for different consumer segments were noted as effective strategies.
Workforce shortages remain a concern. A joint study by the FBA and the Power & Communication Contractors Association (PCCA) predicts the need for an additional 119,200 construction and technician workers over the next decade. Education and recruitment efforts are underway, with digitized platforms playing a critical role in finding new efficiencies.
Future BEAD requirements, especially around data tracking and reporting, are pushing state broadband offices, operators, and contractors to seek new efficiencies. Digital dashboards and reporting tools will be essential as grant funds roll out and projects commence.
A Promising Fiber Future
Challenges aside, it’s an exciting time to be a part of the fiber broadband industry. At Sitetracker, we are grateful to be part of an innovative community dedicated to solving hard problems and bridging the digital divide. The themes of overcoming barriers with collaboration and communication, embracing digitization, and focusing on long-term planning will continue to shape the industry in the years to come. We look forward to seeing how these discussions and innovations will translate into real-world advancements and improved connectivity for communities around the globe. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue building the future of fiber broadband!
Ready to take the next step and learn how Sitetracker can help your business deploy faster and more efficiently? Reach out for your personalized demo today!
