Input Needed to Improve State’s High Speed Internet Service

The availability, quality and competitiveness of broadband service have become and will continue to be a key issue for Wisconsin’s economy, according to Reed Hall, chief executive officer of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), formerly the Department of Commerce.

Hall spoke earlier this month about the importance of broadband at the LinkWisconsin Broadband Symposium in Madison. “The lack of reliable and affordable broadband capabilities in many areas in Wisconsin is hampering the ability of individuals, families and businesses to access the opportunities offered by modern technology,” said Hall. “People want to work and live where there is quality and affordable broadband,” he added. “Businesses have not started because of a lack of broadband in some areas of the state. Many businesses in areas of Wisconsin, if they need to compete on a global economy, need to have broadband availability brought up to modern standards.”

Through a survey, WEDC is partnering with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) and UW-Extension Center for Community Technology Solutions to assess the broadband needs and gaps in Wisconsin. The goal of the survey is supply data to broadband providers and policy leaders at the local and state level for future broadband planning.

Survey responses from residents and businesses will help identify where there may be a need for improved service or learn lessons about best practices in areas where service is adequate. Results will be used in two ways: 1) locations will be mapped to show adequate service, inadequate service or unmet demand for high speed Internet; and 2) submissions will be used to communicate needs to the provider community.

The survey will take a few minutes to complete and will measure current and future broadband usage and needs.

Residents with Internet access can complete the survey online at: http://wisconsindashboard.org/residence-survey

Business and industry can complete the survey online at: http://wisconsindashboard.org/business-survey

Indivuals lacking Internet access can use a public computer at a library/school or work computer (if permitted) to complete the same online survey. Just click “no” to the question, “Does the address listed above (which is your home address) currently have an Internet connection?”. By answering “no”, you will then have the opportunity to answer questions about your desired Internet service.

If you do not have Internet access at all, please contact 608-267-2338 or the UW-Extension at 715-839-4712 to receive a hard copy by mail. Please complete only one survey per household.

The survey deadline is May 15, 2013.

More information about the LinkWISCONSIN project can be found at http://www.linkwisconsin.gov or by emailing pscstatebroadbandoffice@wisconsin.gov