States with high levels of investment in their broadband infrastructure stand a better chance of seeing economic benefits, according to a new study. TechNet, a bipartisan policy and political network of CEOs that promotes the innovation economy, today unveiled its 2012 State Broadband Index assessing state policies and business climate that impact broadband deployment and demand. The Index also offers stakeholders a roadmap for accelerating progress in building a more innovative and competitive economy.
The report, the "TechNet 2012 State Broadband Index: Where States Rank as They Look to High Speed Connectivity to Grow Strong Economies and Vibrant Communities," found that states actively investing in and utilizing broadband networks are seeing stronger economic growth, better connected communities and enhanced quality of life. Achieving higher network speeds depends upon private investment and, where necessary, appropriate public policies and investments. Specifically, the TechNet State Broadband Index rates the states on indicators of broadband adoption, network quality, and economic structure as a way of taking stock of where states stand in broadband deployment and adoption.
"The TechNet State Broadband Index highlights the important role of the states in determining our nation's broadband future," said Rey Ramsey, President and CEO of TechNet. "Simply put, broadband is the foundation for our nation's continued technology and economic leadership. Broadband is shown to help create economic growth, job creation and many other benefits. We applaud all the states at the top of this index for their leadership in building the broadband infrastructure that is helping deliver economic success and improved quality of life for millions of our fellow citizens."
"TechNet's Broadband study confirms the importance of high speed Internet access for our state," said Washington Governor Chris Gregoire. "Our companies and residents are innovators, and they make the most of the high-speed networks in our communities. Washington's broadband environment has grown through years of planning and commitment, and we welcome the findings released today."
With the State Broadband Index, TechNet examines the key role that states and policies can play in making broadband available to all Americans. The State of Washington tops the TechNet State Broadband Index, driven by an economy that has a strong orientation toward information and communication technology and apps development. Massachusetts and Delaware round out the top three states with Massachusetts' cluster of universities and tech companies and Delaware's high network quality and concentration of corporate headquarters reliant on broadband connectivity.
"Massachusetts is a world leader in the innovation economy because of our infrastructure investments and broadband expansion is a key part of that strategy. We are committed to ensuring dependable, high-speed Internet access is available to every home and business in the Commonwealth by June 2013," said Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. "This study reaffirms the importance of our partnerships with private industries and Massachusetts' leadership in the areas of broadband development and innovation."
"We must create the conditions that both drive innovation and foster a globally competitive environment, " said Delaware Governor Jack Markell. "Delaware is broadband rich. Our existing network is a valuable asset that allows us to support existing companies and continually expand our economic impact."
