Dresden Digital Equity

?? I’m writing this on my personal 2015 (yes, TEN-YEAR-OLD) laptop. And guess what? It still works just fine. Meanwhile, the Humane AI Pin—a $700 gadget hyped as the future of tech—flopped so hard that it’s already on the fast track to becoming e-waste. ?? This isn’t just about one failed device. It’s about an industry that pushes ?? replacement over reuse, where perfectly functional tech ends up in landfills because repairability isn’t profitable. At Human-I-T, we prove there’s a better way—?? reuse before recycling. If companies designed tech to last, we wouldn’t be drowning in discarded devices. #EWaste #TechForGood #RightToRepair

?? EXPLORING Broadband Technologies for Rural Communities ?? We recognize the importance of engaging in the digital age, having access to reliable & high-speed internet access cannot be overstated, especially for rural communities. With various broadband technologies available, it’s essential to compare their effectiveness in delivering connectivity to these areas. KEY BROADBAND TECHNOLOGIES FIBER OPTICS Speed: Offers fast speeds (up to 2 Gbps or more). Reliability: Minimal interference & high resistance to environmental factors. Limitations: High installation costs & may not be available in all rural areas. FIXED WIRELESS Speed: Provides speeds (up to 100 Mbps). Accessibility: Easier to deploy in rural locations without extensive infrastructure. Limitations: Performance can be affected by distance from the tower and natural obstructions. SATELLITE Speed: Offers speeds up to 100 Mbps. Coverage: Can reach remote areas where other technologies cannot. Limitations: Higher latency and weather-dependent performance. CABLE Speed: Typically offers speeds (up to 1 Gbps). Infrastructure: Utilizes existing infrastructure, making it easier to implement. Limitations: Download speeds are moderate, but upload speeds are often suboptimal. So what’s the Best Solution for Rural Communities? After evaluating these options, fiber optic technology emerges as the best solution for rural communities where feasible. Its unmatched speed & reliability can significantly enhance the quality of life, economic opportunities, and access to essential services. ?? ADVANTAGES OF HIGH-SPEED INTERNET ACCESS ?Economic Growth: Enables local businesses to thrive, attracting new investments & creating jobs. ?Education Access: Provides students with online learning resources & opportunities for remote education. ?Healthcare Services: Facilitates telemedicine, allowing residents to access healthcare without traveling. ?Social Connectivity: Helps maintain relationships & community engagement through social media and online platforms. ?Emergency Services: Enhances communication during emergencies, ensuring timely access to essential services. ??Investing in high-speed internet access is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a pathway to a brighter future for rural communities! ??? #Broadband #RuralCommunities #DigitalInclusion #FiberOptic #HighSpeedInternet

Dresden Digital Equity proudly shares information about one of our technology partners. Human-I-T is our refurbished comptuer supplier supporting us with high quality computer equipment that we are providing to our residents under our affordable digital equity program. Here’s their January newsletter https://lnkd.in/eGx8JK4b

Interesting discussion on satellite internet's ability to provide adequate broadband coverage for isolated rural areas. https://lnkd.in/dTX4YUJ7

The Current Landscape of Internet Deception Crypto fraud and the erosion of net neutrality are significant issues that have raised concerns about the integrity of online practices. The rise in #cryptocurrency scams has been alarming, with reports indicating a growing frequency of fraudulent activities in this space . This trend highlights the challenges in regulating a rapidly evolving #financial landscape where deceptive practices can flourish. The Impact of Net Neutrality #NetNeutrality, the principle that #Internet service providers (ISPs) must treat all Internet communications equally, has faced significant challenges. The rollback of net neutrality regulations has allowed corporations more control over what content is accessible and at what speed, potentially leading to unequal access to information. This shift raises concerns about the ability of users to navigate the internet freely and safely, as ISPs may prioritize certain content over others, which could further complicate efforts to combat online fraud. Hope for Improvement Despite these challenges, there are avenues for hope. Increased awareness and advocacy for stronger regulations can lead to more robust protections against both crypto fraud and the negative impacts of net neutrality rollbacks. For instance, regulatory bodies are beginning to recognize the need for effective oversight in the cryptocurrency space, which could help mitigate fraudulent activities. Additionally, public pressure and legal actions can push for the reinstatement of net neutrality principles, ensuring a more equitable internet for all users . While the current landscape of internet deception presents significant challenges, ongoing advocacy for regulatory reforms and public awareness can foster a safer online environment. The fight against crypto fraud and the push for net neutrality are interconnected, and progress in one area can positively influence the other. #internet4all #internetforall #finance #money #innovation #corporatist

If you were on the fence about signing up for our free moderated courses, this is your sign! Register today to grow your Internet knowledge and join our community of learners. Courses start on 20 January! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dk7XfXV

DID YOU KNOW? - Astute boards help with digital transformation within their organizations. The importance of digital transformation success is significant (even though the failure rate continues to be high), and that’s nothing new. (See the link in the Comments???? to read an industry opinion of digital transformation initiatives - “28 Digital Transformation Failure Statistics To Learn From 2024” from Soocial.) Unfortunately, many boards are uncertain how to help drive the changes businesses need. The good news is that the role of boards is expanding—smart boards evolve their tactics and strategies to focus more heavily on value. Boards are typically only peripherally engaged/informed about the technologies supporting the #business. However, that needs to change to ensure accountability and maximize overall company performance and security benefits. Here are 5 expert tips regarding what boards can do to have a positive influence on #DigitalTransformations: 1?? Be clear about the implications of technology. ?The role of the board should understand the impact & benefits of #technology on the business (i.e., improved productivity, efficiency, and growth.) ? Note: If there’s no one on the board familiar with the emerging technology affecting the business, make sure the board gets relevant training or consider bringing on a new board member with relevant experience. 2?? Ensure the #DigitalTransformation initiative fundamentally changes how the business creates value (and isn’t just a shiny new tool.) ?Digital initiatives companies adopt should potentially change at least 20% of operating profits. 3?? Track progress and gauge whether the digital transformation is working. ?Boards need metrics that accurately reflect strategic initiative progress (in a clear & concise manner.) Key metrics could include efficiency gains, the speed with which new ideas are translated into frontline tools, or the percentage of talent working on related/approved initiatives - with the heaviest focus on the metrics relating to the #businesscase achievement 4?? Get expansive about talent. ?Boards are often involved in hiring C-suite #leaders—but given today’s imperatives, it makes sense to expand beyond that to engage with senior #leadership on developing lower-level talent. 5?? Understand where emerging opportunities & threats are. ?As digital businesses migrate into new horizons, #boards need to expand their view of where the opportunities & threats exist. ?? If you’re trying to understand your strategic initiatives, there are knowledgeable resources available: DGCpartners can help. #DGCpartners’ expertise, comprehensive services, hands-on support, focus on sustainability, and tailored solutions can help businesses develop and execute effective strategic plans, programs, and projects that drive long-term success. REACH OUT today! DGCpartners or Don Gleason #Risk #finance #money #digitalization #future #bestadvice

A sister nonprofit, the Internet Society, is instrumental in creating greater education and digital opportunities for women and girls in Mali. See the wonderful article from the Internet Society that follows. #DGCpartners

We support the Internet Society’s mission and goals for expanding internet access!

Dresden-Maine is part of the $30M Lincoln County PEMM2 (Partnerships for Enabling Middle Mile) project, which was approved and funded. Starting January 1, 2025, and running through December 31, 2025, it will add nearly 15,000 households and businesses to 21st-century connectivity! DID YOU KNOW? The Affordable Connectivity Project?seeks to provide Digital Equity & Inclusion programs and services to individuals defined as “covered populations’’ by the Digital Equity Act, including: ? ? Low-income households ? Individuals 60 and older ? Incarcerated & previously incarcerated individuals ? Military veterans ? Individuals with disabilities ? Individuals facing language barriers ? Individuals with low literacy ? Racial and ethnic minorities ? Rural residents Dresden Digital Equity Town of Dresden #internet #connectivity #EconomicDevelopment #DigitalOpportunity