There was interesting discussion about FTTH and economic development this morning at the Digital Cities Expo in Phoenix. While economic development is oftencited as the driving force for municipal involvement, some participants were noting that, by itself, the existence of FTTH is not enough in the absence of other critical economic development assets. Other participants promoted the succedd that their networks had in stimulating competition and lowering prices for business customers. In fact, five times the bandwith for one third the cost. That certainly, at a minimum, levels the playing field and may provide a competitive advantage.

Making sure that local businesses understand how they can use the network is a key ingredient for economic success.