TPRC 2024: The 52nd Research Conference on Communications, Information and Inter

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Abstract:
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA, 2021) and the Digital Equity Act (DEA, 2021) outline key pillars for achieving digital equity, including affordable broadband, device availability, digital literacy training, and privacy measures. The Digital Opportunities Compass framework (Rhinesmith et al., 2023) was introduced to create comprehensive digital equity plans that go beyond basic access, emphasizing long-term social and economic development. The framework aids stakeholders in assessing conditions, developing strategies, and evaluating digital equity impacts. It was shared with policymakers and stakeholders to guide program development.

This study in three Michigan communities explored how local contexts influence digital equity strategies. It utilized the Compass framework and an asset-based community development informed approach to assist communities in creating tailored digital equity strategies. Findings indicated that many participants were new to digital equity concepts, affecting task force recommendations and efficacy metrics. The study suggests that local digital equity coalitions can support national and state efforts and emphasizes building community capacity. It also highlights the need for more research on how local factors influence digital equity outcomes.

Local context, including infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, and community assets, significantly affects policy and program development. Community-driven efforts are often more sustainable, but challenges such as limited knowledge and capacity can hinder progress. A guided decision-making process can help stakeholders develop effective digital equity solutions.

These task force participant experiences and practitioner reflections suggest several important directions for future policy implementations using the Digital Opportunities Compass as a guide. in addition to understanding traditional broadband and digital inclusion metrics, such as the five measurable objectives in the IIJA, future digital equity planning initiatives should make sure to gather data on individual indicators found in the Compass, such as “business digital readiness,” “community health and wellbeing,” “community assets,” and “everyday experiences” pertaining to those most impacted by a lack of broadband, devices, digital skills, and technical support. Second, local initiatives that foster existing community strengths, resources, and values can support effective policy interventions. Third, the Compass pilot revealed several key considerations in developing and deploying future policy interventions. Among these include ensuring clear leadership, community cohesion, and task force composition in the development of local digital equity initiatives. Finally, this study revealed that a lack of capacity, limited understanding of systemic and broader issues impacting digital equity, and time constraints faced by government officials can impede the creation of sustainable solutions and policies.