The purpose of this analysis was to determine which census subdivisions across Canada need improved broadband connectivity. As Canada is becoming more reliant on broadband connections each year, it is important to ensure as many people are included within this network as possible. As such, each mainstream form of broadband internet, which includes wireless, fibre, and copper connections, was investigated based on a variety of criteria. Research revealed that the most important factors for broadband infrastructure include the existence of a population, preferably in a denser region, the existence of current infrastructure, the potential upgradability of the infrastructure, and proximity to an urban centre. However, each of these factors have varying levels of importance depending on what kind of broadband infrastructure is examined. As such, three MCEs were completed, one for each broadband type, using the listed factors with varying weights applied. Each MCE produced a map which scored regions based on their suitability for broadband improvements. These were then analyzed and the top five census subdivisions were picked.
When it comes to siting new broadband distribution centres, it is important to remember the socioeconomic side of the problem. There are a lot of costs that can influence the decision, such as return on investment, construction, maintenance, and excavation. While this analysis is not able to consider these factors together, it provides a smaller list of areas which are in greater need of new infrastructure. Future work can include a more thorough investigation into the broadband network within each of these subdivisions, as well as a cost analysis for creating new or improving existing infrastructure.