The Broadband Opportunity Council (BOC) is an initiative instigated by the Obama Administration, led by NTIA and consists of representatives of 25 federal agencies. The BOC’s purpose is to “make recommendations on actions the Federal government can take under existing authority to improve the nation’s broadband networks and the benefits of broadband to more Americans”. The Broadband Opportunity Council released a Report and Recommendations based upon their request for stakeholder comments (that’s us) and commitments from those 25 federal agencies. To help you skim the document, look for the blue underlined sections. These are potential resources for broadband adoption programs. Our comments to the Broadband Opportunity Council are here. NDIA was cited five times in the Report and Recommendations.
Recent Posts
Definition: Digital Equity
Digital Equity is a condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy and economy. Digital Equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.
Definition: Digital Inclusion
Digital Inclusion refers to the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). This includes 5 elements: 1) affordable, robust broadband internet service; 2) internet-enabled devices that meet the needs of the user; 3) access to digital literacy training; 4) quality technical support; and 5) applications and online content designed to enable and encourage self-sufficiency, participation and collaboration. Digital Inclusion must evolve as technology advances. Digital Inclusion requires intentional strategies and investments to reduce and eliminate historical, institutional and structural barriers to access and use technology.