We present, congratulate and thank in this entry the work and the publication of the research article, A new community business model for a free, open, and neutral network: Considering the wireless to fiber transition (FONN), authors Aleix Llusà Serra, Francisco del Águila López, Jordi Bonet Dalmau and Xavier Moncunill-Geniz, Departament d’Enginyeria Minera, Industrial i TIC, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC), in which different aspects are worked on and detailed such as:
Objectives of the Manifesto in the Context of Free Software
It explores the goals of the FONN manifesto that resemble and relate to the principles of free software.
User Freedom: A Parallel with Source Code Freedom
As the free software movement promotes user freedom to use, study, modify and distribute software, FONN seeks to provide an Internet where users have the freedom to connect and access content without restrictions.
Cooperation in the Construction and Maintenance of the Infrastructure: Similarity with the Free Software Development Community
Just as the free software development community works collectively to improve and maintain software, FONN encourages cooperation among its members to build and maintain the network’s infrastructure.
The role of FONN in avoiding the Tragedy of the Anti-commons
It examines how FONN cooperation can contribute to avoiding the tragedy of the anti-commons in the realm of free, open, and neutral networks.
Resource Sharing and Equitable Access
FONN promotes the sharing of network resources and seeks to ensure that all users have equitable access to the communications infrastructure, thereby preventing unfair blocking and restrictions.
Collaboration in Technological Development
Through collaboration between members of the FONN community, the development of innovative technologies and solutions can be fostered to improve network infrastructure and mitigate potential conflicts of interest.
The new Business Model for FONN and different Property Licenses
It introduces a new business model for FONN inspired by free software and explores various proprietary licensing options that can apply to network infrastructure.
Business model based on economic sustainability
FONN’s new business model is geared towards economic sustainability, incorporating diversified funding sources such as membership fees, user fees and corporate sponsorship to ensure long-term viability.
Explore Alternative Proprietary Licenses
In addition to traditional ownership models such as shared ownership or collective ownership, FONN can explore alternative ownership licenses, such as the Creative Commons license, to promote collaboration and sharing.
The roles of the Members and the economic Flow
It details the various roles that members of the FONN community can take on and analyzes the economic flow associated with building and maintaining the network infrastructure.
Active and Passive roles of members
Active members of the FONN community can participate in tasks such as installing nodes, solving technical problems, and promoting the network, while passive members can contribute financial resources or provide logistical support.
Modeling of Construction and maintenance costs
Using economic models and cost analysis, a fair pricing structure can be established that reflects the real costs of building and maintaining network infrastructure, while ensuring transparency and cost-effectiveness.
In short, Free, Open, and Neutral Networks (FONNs) represent a new way of approaching Internet connectivity, with a focus on user freedom, community cooperation, and economic sustainability. By implementing a new business model, multiple proprietary licensing options, and a clear definition of member roles, FONN can contribute to significantly improving the network infrastructure.
What distinguishes FONN networks from traditional Internet providers?
FONN networks prioritize user freedom, community cooperation and economic sustainability, in contrast to the proprietary models of traditional ISPs.
How can users participate in building FONN’s infrastructure?
Users can participate in installing nodes, solving technical problems, and promoting the network, among other tasks.
What benefits does the proposed business model offer for FONN communities?
The proposed business model provides economic sustainability, avoiding organizational collapse and ensuring the long-term viability of FONN communities.
How can transparency be guaranteed in the costs of building and maintaining FONN’s network infrastructure?
Using economic models and cost analysis, an equitable pricing structure can be established that reflects the actual costs of construction and maintenance.
What are the advantages of FONN networks over infrastructure duplication?
FONN networks avoid infrastructure duplication, reducing the costs and resources needed to provide Internet connectivity to communities.