N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker has invited all North Carolina households and businesses to participate in a new broadband survey released last week through NC Broadband.
The survey and scorecard project will be conducted all over North Carolina throughout October to help households and businesses throughout the state increase their economic vitality by better utilizing broadband technologies, according to a statement released from the N.C. Department of Commerce.
“The vision of NC Broadband is to improve the competitiveness of North Carolina’s businesses and workforce by promoting the use of information technology in education, health care, economic development and all levels of government,” said Secretary Decker. “By utilizing this opportunity, our residents and business leaders can provide valuable feedback and, as a state, North Carolina can leverage its strength as a leader in the digital economy.”
During October, households and organizations will be asked to conduct an online assessment of their use of broadband technologies. The survey results will provide information on broadband usage by North Carolina residents, commercial and non-profit organizations, and will allow for a comparison of broadband usage and economic impacts with peer organizations nationwide.
Up to 500 North Carolina businesses will receive a uniquely-tailored scorecard based on their survey responses that will summarize the financial impacts that broadband currently has on their business. The scorecard will compare individual businesses with industry peers in similar communities around the country as well as provide suggested broadband-enabled tools that could increase competitiveness, efficiencies and revenues.
Formerly the e-NC Authority, NC Broadband is part of the Rural Economic Development Division of the N.C. Department of Commerce and is tasked with working towards solutions for increased broadband availability and adoption across North Carolina.
As the needs for ubiquitous access and digital literacy, higher speeds and capacity continue to grow quickly, NC Broadband is looking to further leverage North Carolina’s broadband infrastructure and utilization through public-private partnerships. .
