Delivering services over next generation broadband networks: exploring devices, applications and networks

Abstract

Investment in 'next generation' (very high speed) broadband infrastructure is expected to enable access to services that will provide citizens with social and economic benefits. Developing services for access using broadband infrastructure can be quite complicated however. This paper explores how services can be delivered over broadband network infrastructure, outlining four broad categories of access devices, three service delivery platforms and two types of networks. Using Australian data, the paper explores user behaviours and expectations around service delivery, illustrating the need for diversity and choice of service offerings. It also notes the importance of mobile services, and makes the case that wireless broadband connectivity should be part of a national broadband infrastructure. Copyright 2010 Catherine Middleton. No part of this article may be reproduced by any means without the written consent of the publisher.