FCC Seeks Comment on SamKnows Broadband Testing and Measurement

The National Broadband Plan stated that, "[p]utting more information in the hands of consumers is a proven method to promote meaningful competition and spur innovation, both of which will generate more and better consumer choices." Numerous parties have supported this goal and suggested that the Federal Communications Commission and private industry should work together to address this issue. To assist in this effort, the National Broadband Plan recommended that the FCC continue efforts to measure and publish data on actual performance of fixed broadband services, and to make that data available publicly. The FCC released a Request for Quotation ("RFQ") pursuant to this recommendation, and has recently contracted with a third-party, SamKnows Limited, to begin this effort. In this Public Notice, the FCC seeks comment on the methodology SamKnows proposes to adopt. Comments are due May 4, 2010.