The Ecology of Community Networking

Abstract

"Last mile" is a supply-side driven term used by telecommunications providers to refer to the local loop; the last to be economically viable.   In globally networked societies, localities have opportunities to grow new economies.   Local must be considered the "First Mile".

"First Mile" is based on demand-side understandings.   It describes a local orientation for telecommunications infrastructure and services, focused on the difference to be made in the quality of peoples’ lives.   "First Mile" is a realization of the emerging ‘hyperarchical’ nature of networked economies, local-global relationships, innovation and social change; with intention that the Information Revolution be a "people’s revolution".