Wired Publication Quotes Roberto Gallardo
Wired’s article, “Redefining ‘Broadband’ Could Slow Rollout In Rural Areas’, utilized remarks from our own Roberto Gallardo. The article covers the issue the Federal Communications Commission is tackling right now. What counts as a broadband internet connection? New guidelines are being considered for lowering the current standards. However, Gallardo argues for the opposite. Wired includes him saying, “Gallardo, the Purdue researcher, argues that mobile broadband is no replacement for home broadband. While it’s possible to use a mobile connection with a laptop or desktop computer, even carriers that offer “unlimited” data plans will often throttle users to slower speeds if they actually use much data. He also argues that while 10 mbps might be good enough for most households today, future applications will likely demand more bandwidth, and it’s important to make sure the country’s most disadvantaged communities are ready for those changes. “It’s like asking ‘Why build a four lane highway when we already have a two lane highway?’ ” he says. “The investment needs to be done now—we’re falling behind.” Gallardo’s passion and knowledge on the issue of rural broadband is clearly displayed by the depth his opinion adds to discussions on the subject. We are proud to have his voice at the Purdue Center for Regional Development!
He has authored more than 70 articles, including peer-reviewed and news outlets regarding rural trends, socioeconomic analysis, industrial clusters, the digital divide and broadband applications. He is also the author of the book “Responsive Countryside: The Digital Age & Rural Communities,” which highlights a 21st century community development model that helps rural communities transition to, plan for and prosper in the digital age. Dr. Gallardo is a TEDx speaker and his work has been featured in a WIRED magazine article, a MIC.com documentary, and a RFDTV documentary.
