Philadelphia Municipal Wireless Network

Municipal Wireless Networks (MWNs) have become increasingly attractive and feasible option for municipal governments attempting to promote universal and equitable access to internet in their communities, as a result of a confluence of factors. This report delves into the development of MWN in Philadelphia. It is a case study of how the municipal government can serve as a catalyst in the adoption of technology, hence promoting economic and social change, as well.

Collaborative management refers to a management technique promoting teamwork and a sense of unity among supervisors and managers in a business organization. It allows team members to combine their strengths offsetting any weaknesses among the members of the team. Collaborative management enhances efficiency in an organization.(Stillman,2010).

The centrality and importance of internet access can never be over emphasized in the global information society. Internet access has become a hugely valuable platform for interaction and communication. Internet can serve as a leveling agent the motivation of development of new systems and the existing economic system. 40% of Philadelphians do not use the internet, posing serious economic repercussions for the political, economic, educational and the social aspect of Philadelphia city. This was according to a study which got conducted in 2003 among the Philadelphians. This led to the government of the city of Philadelphia, despite opposition from commercial and political entities, to address the internet access issue and came up with a Municipal Wireless Network. This idea got nurtured by the newly elected Mayor, John Street.

In 2004, free wireless networks got installed in various locations, as a test project. In the same year, the Mayor announced Wireless Philadelphia, a non-profit organization, to oversee the undertaking of the plan. It had an executive committee composed of influential and eminent personalities who had achieved success in their various occupations, technology-related and entrepreneurial activities. The project got undertaken in three stages. In stage 1, Wireless Philadelphia outlined the goals, explored the expectations and the needs of the various stake holders, while addressing key policy issues at the same time. In stage 2, the Wireless Philadelphia identified the kind of apps that would be supported by the MWN. The technologies that would be used in bringing MWN to fruition also got identified at this stage. This stage also delved into the management and funding options. Stage 3 involved implementation. Conclusion

Municipal Wireless Networks (MWNs) allow increasing internet access among residents of a municipal, sparking development. It enhances communication and interaction between people and the authorities, or government.