BCAT Beta Test, Partners, and Collaborators

In conjunction with the Technology Transformation Service, BroadbandUSA employed agile design principles to ensure that the Assessment Tool supports and accelerates the work of local broadband teams. The Office of the Presidential Innovation Fellows within the Technology Transformation Service applies modern methodologies and technologies to improve the public’s experience with government by helping agencies make their services more accessible, efficient, and effective.

Over the past 18 months, hundreds of business, civic, nonprofit, and individual stakeholders from around the country have contributed to the BroadbandUSA Connectivity Framework and Assessment Tool. With appreciation for these communities and partners, and with support from the Office of Presidential Innovation Fellows, we launched a beta test for the online tool in June. The beta test will run through September 2017.

We would especially like to thank the organizations and communities that have directly supported the beta test:

  • ConnectME Authority
  • Island Institute
  • Next Century Cities
  • National Digital Inclusion Alliance
  • State of Alabama Broadband Office
  • State of Washington Chief Information Office
  • Washington State University Extension Services

Each of the following communities have identified broadband planning teams of up to twelve people to use the Assessment Tool to complete a local broadband assessment and plan.

  • Alexander City, AL
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Franklin County, ME
  • Kansas City, MO
  • Lincoln County, ME
  • Lincoln County, WA
  • Long Island, ME
  • Louisville, KY
  • Piscataquis County, ME
  • San Antonio, TX
  • Selma, AL
  • Stevens County, WA
  • Swan’s Island, ME
  • Vinalhaven, ME
  • White Center, King County, WA

Community teams are as diverse as the communities represented. They include mayors, councilmen, Internet Service Providers, business leaders, librarians, educators, residents, activists, Economic Development Councils, and nonprofit leaders.

The predecessor to the BroadbandUSA Connectivity Assessment Tool, the Connected Community Initiative, was announced in March 2016 with support from 60 nonprofits and community leaders.

BroadbandUSA thanks these teams – and all stakeholders who contributed to this process – for their leadership, insights, and ideas.