We Don't Need No Stinkin' Broadband

Ant writes "eMarketer has an article on The Yankee Group's analysis on why some Americans aren't feeling the broadband love. It was based on Ipsos Public Affairs. 45% of Americans say it's simply too expensive. 30% say that they just don't want it. 14% say they feel dial-up is adequate for their needs. Less than 10% are not able to get broadband access in their area. Five percent insist broadband is "too complicated". Another 5% aren't even sure why they don't have it..."

Comments

The biggest danger of broadband

[binkzz]

is that once you try it, you can not go back to dialup.

If you haven't had broadband yet and only dialup, upgrading doesn't seem necessary. But once you've experienced the speed of broadband and the convenience of not having to dial up and log in, you'll never want to go back.

Re:Because it will be too deeply entrenched

[nwbvt]

"More and more companies will reach the point where it's almost impossible to get your business done without using the internet. How long will companies accept resumes on paper?"

Yes, many jobs will require Internet access. Many jobs today require Internet access. But are you seriously going to tell me that day laborers or fast food restaurant workers are going to need access to the Internet in order to do their jobs?

"How long will banking without the internet be reasonable?"

Probably for a very long time. Unless banks can find a way to print money over the Internet, ATMs and physical banks will need to continue to exist.

"When will doing your taxes without it become impractical?"

Its not that hard to fill out a W-2 form. And even with tax programs, you are still going to need to enter the same information. If your taxes are a bit more complex, those programs are very useful, but not everyone is going to need that.

"any more than I can really comprehend people who don't use ATMs."

Well that just means you are not very good at comprehending other people's lifestyles.