A Framework for Investigating the Value of Public Wireless Networks

Abstract

The paper presents a framework for assessing the value of public wireless networks, by considering various dimensions of network usage. For instance, is the network intended to serve as a primary internet access point (e.g. digital inclusion projects) or does it provide secondary access (e.g. access "in between" home and office, including outdoor locations)? What is the bandwidth available to network users, and are there limitations on the sorts of activities that can be done on the network (e.g. is bandwidth limited at particular times of day? are activities like sending email or uploading files prohibited?)? What are users' needs for mobility, and are cloud or zone arrangements sufficient for people who require true mobile (not portable) connectivity? What types of devices are needed to access the networks, and are these the devices that users want to carry around with them on a daily basis? Are users willing or able to pay for network access?