The U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) revealed state allocations of funding for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program at the end of June. Now, the clock is ticking on critical milestones and deliverables. As states prepare their initial proposals, due by the end of this year, concerns still need to be addressed over the accuracy of FCC broadband mapping, which determines the designation for funding within each state. For states to allocate their funds accurately and not over- or under-build, they need urgent help from operators to create a map of all buildings, identify which buildings are eligible for or need broadband service, determine what services are provided, and calculate fiber drop distances. Information on poles, towers, hubs, and fiber infrastructure is also required.
Communications service providers (CSPs) are in the optimal position to provide states with this critical data and fill those broadband black spots. And, while the state governments are responsible for allocating BEAD funding, service providers should pay attention to several crucial guidelines that will determine how the program is implemented and affect the selection process. In addition, there are three key areas that CSPs need to address:
- Network inventory accuracy
A significant problem with the FCC’s broadband mapping is the need for more accuracy in identifying the locations where CSPs provide service. The mapping relies on information supplied by CSPs regarding connectivity to their subscribers’ locations. However, due to the complexity and constant evolution of modern networks, outdated and misaligned network inventories make it challenging to ensure reporting accuracy. By obtaining a comprehensive view of network resource utilization, CSPs can plan and track physical and virtual assets, correlating inventory data across all network layers. Accurate and up-to-date network elements and inventory data enable CSPs to synchronize planned network resources, rapidly deploy and scale infrastructure, and handle diverse network traffic. Modern network inventory management systems offer a centralized solution for seamless collaboration among network planners and engineers. These systems automatically track equipment and connectivity, presenting graphical overviews, interactive diagrams, topologies, and maps that bring data to life, facilitating efficient identification of misconfigurations and optimization of assets. An accurate network inventory will not only help CSPs provide the much-needed mapping data the states are looking for but will also become essential for CSPs selected as part of the BEAD program to improve network performance and reduce unnecessary capital expenditures.
- Location intelligence for geospatial network planning
By utilizing geographic information system (GIS) technology, CSPs can effectively evaluate environmental conditions, such as variations in terrain, physical infrastructure like poles and ducts, easements, and right of ways, and gain valuable insights into the locations of probable broadband black spots. GIS tools provide contextual visualization and data analysis, enabling CSPs to collaborate more effectively with state stakeholders. In contrast, the current FCC mapping often fails to highlight these areas, requiring additional time and effort to develop a plan. Leveraging location-based data empowers network planning, design, and operation teams with a reliable source of information for making location-based decisions and improving productivity. Through comprehensive GIS mapping data that includes topography, population density, and predicted population trends, along with location-based analytics, CSPs can expedite time-to-market by identifying areas of need, evaluating existing capacity, planning network investments, and maximizing return on investment.
- Efficient Infrastructure design and intelligent network management
Once the state selects a service provider to roll out broadband access, it becomes critical to establish a fiber network design to ensure an accurate and expedient infrastructure build. Efficient build-outs are paramount in this process to minimize costs and maximize productivity. Additionally, accurate reporting on infrastructure as the build process occurs may be required as proof by the funding agency, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Handling other layered services, such as those related to digital transformation (e.g., Factories, Energy, cell tower backhaul), adds complexity to the network design. All of this requires comprehensive planning to accommodate diverse requirements and effectively integrate various services into the broadband infrastructure.
How Enghouse Networks Can Help
With states needing immediate assistance from operators to gather crucial information on buildings, broadband eligibility, services provided, and fiber infrastructure, CSPs need to have the right tools in place. Enghouse Networks aids operators in preparing their networks to meet these demands effectively, emphasizing the significance of proper design, management, and monetization to ensure successful network development. To learn more, visit our Network Resource Management page or contact us today.
