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Whether you are just exploring your muni broadband network options or you've already issued an RFP, there are many valuable lessons to learn from this workshop, including:
This full-day (or two half-day) workshop encourages you to ask - and answer - tough questions that need to be addressed. Avoid the pitfalls facing cities that jump in without the proper due diligence or planning. Learn how to get it right.
This is a typical workshop agenda.Morning
Goal setting, round 1
Your team likely has several general goals for the municipal network, and these will be refined with pre-session research. The day's presentation will start with a short group discussion on these goals.
Know your technology options
WiFi is the technology that grabs many headlines, but there are other technology options, as well as variations on how mesh networks can be configured and deployed. This segment gives you a high-level view of teose options and how they may impact your city or county's goals.
Push the envelope on business models
The discussion of business models often centers on two or three options. However, there are many possible ways to approach the funding and operation of the network. This creative brainstorming exercise explores these possibilities.Afternoon
Building consensus
This is a critical task for any government with aggressive plans for its network. Both within the government and among key constituents you must get them to share and actively support the vision.
Create a network of the people, by the people and for the people
If the purpose of your network is to advance social and economic development goals, in-depth feedback from the community is critical. Learn how to draw valuable insight from a cross section of communities that also builds a critical mass of support for the project.
Writing a great business plan
Before you do an RFP, you need to have a business plan. A broadband network is a business venture with potential to significantly impact your municipality, regardless of who actually owns and operates it. A good plan ensures a better RFP.
Effective vendor selection and management
Most municipal networks require several vendors and service providers to ensure all the correct parts come together. Learn practical, useful tips and recommendations on how to recruit the best vendor team and get the best performance from them.
Review and fine-tune goals
After spending the day reviewing a broad range of possibilities and examining the scope of work required to make a network viable, it's time to come back and have a reality check on your goals.