Social housing FMs need to ask their broadband provider important questions – (c) Rawpixel_Shutterstock
Facilities managers and managing agents of social housing and community facilities across the UK should be quizzing their broadband provider on these five important factors.
1.Technology: Copper cables vs Full fibre
Although copper cables represented a popular solution for many years, this technology is gradually being phased out as full-fibre broadband has taken over the market.
Unlike the thick, vulnerable copper cables, fibre connects directly to properties, which means faster, more reliable internet with less interference, better reach and greater bandwidth. Traditional broadband providers offer fibre to the cabinet (FTTC), which relies on these old copper wires with slow speeds, whereas fibre to the premises (FTTP) is much faster, more reliable and the best possible option your tenants could ask for.
2. Inclusivity: Social tariffs
Following the impact of Covid pandemic, broadband is now just as important as other key utilities like water, gas and electricity.
Some internet providers are offering social tariffs, which are often cheaper with no credit checks and tie-in contracts, to make sure everyone can keep up with the rapidly evolving digital world.
Social tariffs are a great way to increase digital inclusion across the UK and therefore, every FM should keep an eye on them and see whether tenants meet eligibility criteria.
3. Services: Additional support
The broadband market is constantly expanding with new providers. Their services may differ slightly on aspects such as price or installation fee, but speed is one that most people will focus on. Beyond the copper versus fibre debate, it’s important to consider what additional support or added value you can get from your broadband provider.
To ensure tenant satisfaction and wellbeing, efficient services and good relationships with broadband providers remain some of the crucial areas for FMs to focus on in the upcoming year. In other words, make sure the provider is proactive and cares about the residents. Even the most advanced technology can sometimes fail, but installation engineers should be always ready to help.
4. Accessibility: Broadband to each unit
Good infrastructure, including broadband and other services, is one of the crucial criteria for tenants, especially when living in multiple dwelling units (MDUs). Installations of full-fibre broadband are significantly faster, and in many buildings, routers can be placed behind every door if needed.
Beyond customer service the broadband provider offers, FMs should make sure they receive additional support and other marketing information and literature they can share. Digital notice boards, leaflets or stickers are some good ways to promote the services available to residents.
5. Impact: Community wellbeing
Along with day-to-day duties, FMs have the power to boost residents’ wellbeing. Connecting families to broadband can significantly lift the living standard of a community and bring life-changing opportunities, particularly to low-income areas.
Whether it is a community room or reception area that needs connecting, a broadband provider is usually able to step in and offer some extra services to bring the community together. Crucially, speaking to residents about doing something like this is a fantastic way to build stronger relationships and show that you care about their needs.
