Bridging the Digital Divide: The Case of Bell Nortel and Chapleau Ontario Case Solution And Analysis, HBR Case Study Solution & Analysis of Harvard Case Studies

Bell, Nortel and Chapleau, Ontario, set out to turn the community of Chapleau through the deployment of technology and business solutions. Together, they deploy a wireless broadband network in the city, providing mobile access to the Internet by 2800 residents and visitors alike. They also worked with five local schools, hospitals, and local businesses to identify and implement business solutions. The hospital provides indoor wireless network, updated telephone system and computers. Schools are given laptops, wireless, multimedia equipment, and teacher training. The community itself, in addition to free wireless broadband service provided community portal, computer training and free access to a myriad of technologies. Community center is set with multimedia equipment. University researchers are introduced to study the effect of technology on society, small business, health and education. Court diabetes launched. Employment is provided to 5 residents. Within two years, millions of dollars are spent and learned a lot, not only Bell and Nortel, but also the community, government (federal, provincial, municipal), and others. Bell and Nortel to build strong relationships with the community. The degree of interdependence established. Almost two years later, the project is nearing completion. Chapleau City Council is concerned about what will remain in the community. They are asking the stability of solutions for the investment made by the project team. The Steering Committee shall determine the need and importance of the project stakeholders and offer a sustainable solution. "Hide
by Gwyneth Edwards Source: North American Case Research Association (NACRA) 24 pages. Publication Date: December 1, 2011. Prod. #: NA0129-PDF-ENG