Earthlink finally pulls out of Wireless Philly, but all is not lost

Stuff and nonsense: >From day one, the purpose of Philly?s network is to increase digital inclusion and economic development. The measure of their success should be how lives and businesses are being helped in disadvantaged communities.

The city to stick to providing basic services, and no more. That is the best way of helping helping disadvantaged communities. I listened to the Philly CTO speak at the WCA conference in DC several years ago. A primary reason she gave for delivering WiFi to poor people's homes was that these folks lived in dangerous neighborhoods and could not go out after dark to a library or other public area.
I was struck at the absurdity of a city using WiFi to overcome its inability to provide basic security on the streets.

>In a local way, treat initiatives the way Microsoft, IBM, Palm and others treat their products. Build anticipation, set realistic expectations, educate the market.

Nonense. Cities are not equipped to do the above. This is not their core competence, nor should it be. Yes, there is a place for city-wide wireless coverage. Cities should get out of the way and let private companies experiment with their own money, knowing that there exist paying customers in public agencies who need this.; Posted by: pranavb99@... Posted on: 05/14/08 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use