2009 brought broadband even more into the spotlight thanks to the high speed Internet demands of Americans, investments by providers, and attention from policymakers.   Here are five broadband trends that we at NextGenWeb hope will continue to thrive in the new year:

1) Embracing Broadband to Solve Societal Issues

Broadband is being used to solve some of America’s most pressing issues, including healthcare, the environment, and education.  American individuals and businesses are increasingly relying on solutions like health IT, green technology, and distance learning to improve efficiencies in these areas.  To continue this encouraging trend, our policymakers should support initiatives that will advance health care, modernize our education system, and protect our environment, all through broadband technology.

2) Prioritization from U.S. Policymakers

2009 brought unprecedented attention from U.S. policymakers to the positive impacts that broadband has on American lives.  President Barack Obama not only made his passion for technology known, but he incorporated the ways broadband technology can help throughout his speeches and actions.  Now the FCC is in the final stages of a producing a National Broadband Plan, which will be delivered to Congress on February 17, 2010.  We hope that it will promote policies that will inspire investment in and adoption of broadband networks and not impose unnecessary regulations that could counter that.

3) Broadband for Innovation and Economic Growth

Assuming a constructive policy environment, broadband will continue to be a primary driver of the U.S. economic recovery, job creation and competitiveness over the next year, decade, and beyond.  The broadband and IT sectors are the leading sectors for job creation and contribution to the GDP.  Furthermore, broadband enables small businesses to have the resources and reach that they need to not only play in today’s global marketplace, but succeed.

4) Increased Adoption & Use Among All Americans

With over 90% of Americans having access to broadband Internet, it can be difficult to imagine why still one third of those people would choose not to adopt.  Some of the demographics that are lagging include seniors, minorities, and low-income Americans.  However, when surveyed, one of the top barriers to adoption is relevancy, which is why digital literacy will play a critical role inspiring those with access to adopt, thereby bridging the digital divide.

5) Broadband Enabling Advocacy & Participation

Not long ago, people would organize a march on the National Mall to get the attention of policymakers in Washington, DC. Today, anyone with a high-speed Internet connection can participate and people are doing so in astounding numbers.  Furthermore, policymakers are making it even easier to hear from constituents by making themselves available through multimedia communications, online collaboration tools, and social networking platforms.

What broadband trend would you like to see continue in 2010?

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