Strong, active, and persistent leadership from local government and other constituent groups is vital to broadband success. Formal or informal leaders should be identifiable at the early stages of a project or may already be in place. Therefore, the presence of such individuals is a measure of readiness.
The leaders need not be proficient in broadband technologies, but they must have a strong appreciation of the benefits of broadband for the community and an ability to articulate those benefits at various levels to different community constituents. They also play a key role in maintaining focus on the project goals, which requires ongoing presence and active involvement over time.
Leaders mobilize the community and its members to support an initiative’s necessary elements. They promote the benefits of broadband, help educate constituents and build support. They articulate a vision for their community and work with others to share that vision and its benefits within the community. Leaders help ensure that resources are available and dedicated to the initiative. Leaders are key to identifying potential contributors and participants in the project, and forming relationships to bring the project to fruition.
The leadership base in any community exists in many layers: · The private sector · The public sector · Major institutions such as education and healthcare, etc. · Community groups such as non-profits, neighborhood associations, etc.
Typically, one or more active leaders will step forward through their own desire and motivation for the benefit of their community. They ask questions and promote discussion among community members.