Creating a broadband network with BEAD funds is a significant achievement, but sustaining it requires thoughtful planning and ongoing effort. Here’s how to ensure your project remains viable for years to come.
Regular Maintenance and Upgrades
Networks need consistent care to perform optimally. Routine maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming major problems.
Actions:
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Schedule regular inspections.
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Replace aging equipment before it fails.
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Evaluate new technologies to maintain competitive service levels.
Monitor Key Performance Metrics
Track critical data to assess the network’s impact and identify improvement areas.
Suggested Metrics:
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Adoption rates.
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Customer satisfaction scores.
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System uptime and average speeds.
Expand and Adapt
Sustainability isn’t just about maintaining the status quo. It’s about growth and adaptation.
Strategies:
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Explore additional services, such as smart city solutions or IoT applications.
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Partner with local organizations to extend the network’s reach and impact.
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Seek supplementary funding to fuel expansion projects.
Build a Culture of Improvement
Empower your team to innovate and seek efficiencies continuously. Encourage regular training and keep an eye on industry advancements.
By integrating these practices, ISPs can transform BEAD-funded networks into long-term assets that connect communities and support growth for decades.
For more BEAD resources, visit our BEAD Funding Toolkit 👉 https://sonar.software/bead-funding-toolkit