Starting Your Broadband Journey? Find the Right Guide

As federal and state funding makes the deployment of broadband networks appealing to entitles beyond traditional internet service providers, electric cooperatives and municipalities are getting into the broadband game. If you’re new to broadband, finding the right partner to help you—from feasibility to funding, from planning to construction—is crucial. Here are five qualities electric coops and municipalities should look for in a partner: 

1. Broadband industry experience. The first question to ask a potential vendor partner is whether they have sufficient experience in broadband. Rather than a Johnny-come-lately who may just be chasing grant dollars, look for companies that have been around for decades and seen the transition from traditional phone service to the early days of the internet to the advent of powerful technologies like fiber. Then, make sure they’re still innovating and at the top of their game today. 

2. Rural experience. Whether you’re an electric cooperative that serves rural communities or a small city or town in a rural setting, you know that rural areas present different challenges and opportunities than cities or suburbs. Potential partners in your broadband deployment should have the same deep understanding of rural life that you do. Rural broadband is a unique animal, particularly in low-density areas where homes and businesses may be hard to reach. You need a partner that knows how to make rural broadband work. 

3. Breadth of services. B2B companies serving the broadband industry bring different skills and services to the table. The strongest partners can provide full-service support for network builds, from the start of your project—when you’re exploring the feasibility of your project—to network planning, design, and construction. Companies that offer a complete package offer efficiencies and cohesiveness you won’t find if you have a different partner for every service you need. 

4. The right systems, tools, and technology. Do you have existing systems that you need a partner to work with? Are there technologies or platforms you want to use, like GIS mapping tools? Find a partner who can work with your system or is willing to adapt their tools to integrate with yours. Ask about which systems a potential partner can bring to the table, and why they’ll make your project easier and more likely to succeed. The right tools are essential. 

5. Values that fit. You will spend a lot of time working with your partners in fiber deployment. They will become close associates, and you’re likely to work with them for years. So make sure their values match your values, and they understand why bringing broadband to rural communities is far more than an economic opportunity—it’s a life-changing technology that makes life in rural areas better. Find a partner that truly considers your success their success. 

With dedicated partners and a strong plan in place, deploying broadband can be a win for electric cooperatives and municipalities. Do your research and start searching for the right partner today. 

CHR Solutions is a proven industry leader focused on creating strong relationships with rural and independent telcos, electric cooperatives, municipalities, and broadband providers to develop and implement advanced network solutions. From feasibility studies to network design and construction, we partner with you every step of the way to optimize your operation and increase your speed to market.