Abstract

During the last few years, governments around the world have embarked on the implementation of ambitious broadband programs that seek to accelerate the deployment of new generation networks in their countries. These programs, or national broadband plans, are being led by the belief that broadband contributes to economic growth and social inclusion. Although, the diffusion of broadband technologies is a fairly recent phenomena, there is a growing body of literature that support this belief through empirical data that shows broadband adoption increases productivity, ¹ job creation, ² and gross domestic product (GDP). ³