To guide the state’s internet expansion and training efforts, the Department of Economic Development’s Office of Broadband Development (OBD) and the University of Missouri (MU) Extension have partnered in conducting a brief online survey on household internet access and use. The anonymous survey, which takes about six minutes to complete, is now open for submissions.

“As we continue making historic investments in Missouri’s broadband infrastructure, we encourage public feedback to inform our efforts,” said BJ Tanksley, Director of the Office of Broadband Development. “Hearing from citizens, in urban and rural areas, is an incredibly valuable part of understanding our state’s needs. This survey from our colleagues at the University of Missouri will play a vital role in informing future investments, achieving a digitally inclusive future, and helping Missourians prosper.”

The OBD and MU Extension survey asks households about existing internet use, including devices, connections, and applications, in addition to barriers to using them, such as financial obstacles and training and assistance needs. Achieving the full economic benefit of broadband expansion requires both the availability of connections and their adoption and use, which is vital for telemedicine, education, business, and more.

“The survey will be used to obtain community feedback to support the development of additional data-driven tools and outreach reinforcing OBD’s broadband efforts across the state,” said Alison Copeland, the University of Missouri System’s Deputy Chief Engagement Officer and Manager of the UM System Broadband Initiative.

The UM System’s Broadband Initiative is a coordinated effort to encourage the statewide build-out of reliable, high-speed internet infrastructure and use of broadband-based applications to improve the lives of Missourians.

About the Missouri Department of Economic Development

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.

For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.

For more information on the Office of Broadband Development, including current or future expansion efforts, visit the Connecting All Missourians webpage.

About MU Extension

Through the innovations and ideals of the University of Missouri, MU Extension improves lives, businesses and communities by focusing on solving Missouri’s grand challenges around economic opportunity, educational access, and health and well-being.

To learn more about MU Extension, visit extension.missouri.edu.