Strategies for Rural Data Collection
Lessons learned from innovative approaches to gathering broadband data in rural communities.
Guiding Future Rural Broadband Projects
In collaboration with ANTHC and local Community Lead Partners (CLPs), our implementation efforts leveraged diverse data collection methods designed to address rural challenges. From in-person outreach to advanced remote and mobile tools, these strategies tackled regional barriers and uncovered insights to guide future rural broadband projects.
Strategies and Learnings from West Virginia
Effective Engagement Strategies
Proven strategies that fostered trust and boosted community engagement.
Community-Led Outreach
Face-to-face outreach increased community involvement, especially in Texas and Michigan. Direct, personal connections helped build trust and clearly communicated the importance of our work.
Local Partnerships
Strong existing relationships in Alaska and West Virginia helped overcome access challenges. These partnerships provided a foundation of trust that smoothed the path for data gathering.
Innovative Deployment Methods
Leveraging technology to extend reach and gather valuable insights.
Software-Based Pods
In remote areas where physical access was difficult, software-based, remotely-deployable Pods allowed us to gather data without needing on-site support.
Mobile Data Collection
The mobile app for broadband testing enabled an assessment of internet availability across communities, particularly those dependent on cellular networks. CLPs drove through these areas using the app, collecting comprehensive data without the need to install physical devices in homes or businesses.
Value-Added Support
Offering technical assistance (TA) as part of the value of participation made pods a useful tool for improving internet rather than just being a way to contribute to the pilot.
Motivating Participation
Encouraging participation through thoughtful incentives and outreach.
Incentives
Gift cards in Michigan and Texas boosted engagement and pod retention as there was a lot of work involved in setting up and maintaining our monitoring equipment. Gift cards helped cover the perceived effort involved.
Cold Calling
Phone outreach yielded mixed results but was more effective when paired with rewards. This method is cost-effective but requires adaptation and active management.
Exploring Future Strategies
Local Media & Mailers
Radio Public Service Announcements (PSAs), press, and mailers generated significant interest and awareness. Although not fully evaluated, this approach showed promise for broader outreach.
Alternative Partnerships
Hyper-local partners with unique expertise surfaced throughout the project. Flexibility in partnerships could enhance effectiveness by tapping into specialized local knowledge.
Step-by-Step Engagement
Starting with simple requests (like web-based speed tests) made deeper involvement easier. Showing participants potential connectivity issues helped build interest in further data collection efforts.