Group Expanding Fiber Network
The chief executive officer of Indiana Fiber Network LLC says strengthening the state's broadband infrastructure is making an economic difference, particularly in rural areas. Kelly Dyer says connectivity gives rural hospitals access to high-speed imaging and electronic medical records, and allows educational institutions to provide distance-learning programs. He says smaller communities also need broadband access if they hope to keep young professionals at home. More than 12 years after its formation, the Indiana Fiber Network spans 3,500 miles and connects more than 4,000 buildings in Indiana. Dyer talked about the network's growth and connectivity challenges on Inside INdiana Business Television. Dyer helped form IFN in 2002. It is owned by 20 Indiana rural telephone companies and provides fiver service locally through its own facility and nationally through INDATEL. The network provides service to 53 of Indiana's 92 counties.
Dyer says IFN has helped boost the state's health care industry by partnering with the Indiana Rural Health Association on the Indiana Telehealth Network. The network does business with more than 40 health care providers throughout the state, including Community Health Network, Parkview Health and St. Vincent Health.
In August, Indiana Fiber Network announced a partnership with Data Realty LLC to bring big data analytics, colocation and disaster recovery information to clients through high-speed fiber connectivity.
Source: Indiana Fiber Network