Synopsis
The most critical element to the success of National Broadband Networks (NBN) will be the infrastructure company that will run the network. They will have to make the critical architecture and design decision for the open wholesale-only services which will form the basis of this new infrastructure for at least the next 25 years. Essential here will be that the network will facilitate the vision laid down by governments which include multiple use of the network by other sectors such as healthcare, education, energy, etc. At the same time the company will need to ensure that it remains an infrastructure company and doesn’t become another telco.
Australia was the first country to get the (national purpose) vision right, thanks to government leadership. The USA soon followed and is now showing real leadership as well. The Netherlands and New Zealand also are on the right track. Economic and trans-sector innovations are now key items on the political agenda of these countries. There is no silver bullet and each unique situation generates its own alternatives, which in turn inform others involved in similar national projects. The vision gives rise to the creation of social and economic strategies that need to be taken into account in the design and architecture of the infrastructure. Pragmatic solutions need to be developed to maximise the use of existing infrastructure and other resources. Un(der)served areas need to receive priority and local communities and councils can play a key role in this. Wireless broadband can play a major role as well. These early projects could also be an ideal testing ground for trans-sector applications.